A friendly reminder about road hunting grouse and ptarmigan

As the days get shorter and many of the big game seasons begin to wind down, grouse and ptarmigan hunting becomes a popular way for Alaskans to get out and enjoy the outdoors before winter sets in. As you get out enjoying the woods and looking for birds, we want to offer a friendly reminder about road hunting.

It is illegal to shoot grouse, ptarmigan, or any other animal while on, from, or across any drivable surface of a constructed road or highway. This includes, but is not limited to, gravel roads, driveways, parking areas, and pullouts.

This regulation is about more than just following the rules. Shooting from or across roadways can create a serious safety hazard for other hunters, motorists, pedestrians, and nearby residents. Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) has already received several calls this season regarding concerns with shooting from roadways. We encourage everyone to enjoy the fall and winter small game hunting seasons, but please do so safely and responsibly. If you are hunting near a road, make sure you are safely off the roadway and that your shooting direction and backstop is appropriate. A little extra distance from the road can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe while still enjoying a successful day of hunting.

If you are successful, please consider donating one wing and the (intact) tail fan from your harvested grouse or one wing and the head from your harvested ptarmigan. These samples allow ADF&G biologists to determine the sex and age composition of harvested populations of game birds throughout the state. Coupled with spring breeding surveys, this information allows biologists to monitor population trends. Sample envelopes are available from your local ADF&G office.

TJ Allderdice is a biologist with Alaska Department of Fish & Game in Delta Junction.

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