Cooler Temps, Bigger Fish

The DNR encourages the public to report any black bear den locations across Wisconsin to help with an ongoing study on black bear reproduction.

The Black Bear Litter and Diet Survey will generate new estimates of black bear reproductive rates within each bear management zone, and these estimates will improve the accuracy of the population models used in each zone. Additionally, researchers are investigating a connection between consumption of human food sources and bear reproduction since diet can affect cub survival rates and litter sizes.

The study will be entering its fourth year of surveying occupied dens in the Wisconsin bear range. The research team will take den reports statewide but is looking for more dens to survey in bear management zones C, D and E, which cover central and western Wisconsin.

To report a known black bear den, visit the DNR’s black bear den submission form.

Helpful information to report to the bear research team includes:

• GPS coordinates
• Photo of the den, ideally showing it in relation to its surroundings, from a safe distance (approximately 30 yards)
• Description of the site and surrounding area
• Any information on the bear(s) and bear activity near the site

To learn more, you can check out our video discussing the project or watch a recent episode of PBS Wisconsin’s “Wisconsin Life” series.

Thank you for helping to support wildlife research in Wisconsin.

Know The Hunting And Trapping Seasons
Opening This Month

Several hunting and trapping seasons are opening in November. Hunters and trappers are encouraged to double-check the regulations and confirm that they have all the necessary licenses before heading into the field.

Nov. 2

• Beaver (Zones A, B and C, trapping only)
• Mink (Southern Zone, trapping only)
• Muskrat (Southern Zone, trapping only)
• Otter (trapping only)
• Raccoon (non-resident)

Nov. 11

• Mink (Mississippi River Zone, trapping only)
• Muskrat (Mississippi River Zone, trapping only)

Nov. 23

• Crow
• Deer Gun

Hunters should note that turkey season closes in Zones 6 and 7 on Nov. 22. However, it remains open in Zones 1–5 until Jan. 5, 2025.

Mobile-friendly resources are available, including regulations, season dates, hunting hours, pheasant stocking and more, on the DNR’s Hunting or Trapping webpages. Hunters and trappers can also find information on species population levels and hunting opportunities in the DNR’s 2024 Fall Hunting Forecasts.

Find public lands open to hunting using the DNR’s Public Access Lands webpage. These resources let hunters and trappers plan their next adventure from the comfort of their homes.

It takes everyone to ensure Wisconsin remains a safe place to hunt and trap. When hunting or trapping alone, always let someone know your plan; if your plans change, keep them updated. Hunters should also remember to follow the basic rules of firearm safety:

• T – Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
• A – Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
• B – Be certain of your target, what’s before it and what’s beyond it.
• K – Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot.

Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, must have a hunter education certification to purchase a hunting license unless hunting under the Mentored Hunting Law. Learn more about safe hunting in Wisconsin or register for a hunter education course on the DNR website.

All first-time trappers must complete an approved trapper education course unless they are trapping under the youth-supervised option, mentored trapping program or other exemptions. Experienced trappers teach this comprehensive course, which covers basic trapping skills, including legal methods, regulations, safety and ethics.

Have a safe and successful hunting and trapping season!

_{Photo Credit: Northeast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies}