Thursday is the final day for filing limited-license applications for Colorado’s spring turkey hunt. The 2006 hunt features several changes, including a fee increase to $21 for adults, $11 for youth. Add $3 when applying for a limited license.
In addition, a habitat stamp and 75-cent education surcharge is required. Turkey hunters now may compile preference points toward obtaining a special license, one for an unsuccessful spring season application, another for the fall. Applications can be made online, www.wildlife.state.co.us.
Horning in
There’s nothing like a handsome set of antlers – even if you resort to picking it up off the ground rather than hunting it the hard way.
Trouble is, the activity of collecting shed antlers in winter can result in injurious disturbance to deer and elk already badly stressed by the effects of snow and cold. Approaching wintering animals not only increases this stress level, but sometimes causes them to move to private property where they cause damage.
It’s illegal to harass wildlife, and the Colorado Division of Wildlife urges collectors to remain as far as possible from wintering animals.
Poaching search
The Division of Wildlife is seeking information about two incidents near Dinosaur National Monument in which bull elk were killed and stripped of their antlers.
The most recent occurred Jan. 21, when a large bull was shot on U.S. 24 south of the town of Dinosaur. In an earlier incident in December, two bulls were killed in the Wild Mountain area along the Utah border. Anyone with knowledge of these events is encouraged to call Operation Game Thief, 877-265-6648.
