The Colorado Division of Wildlife cautions big-game hunters to always be sure of their targets, to be aware of the different types of animals that are in various habitats and to know what might be behind their targets.
The rifle season for big game starts Oct. 14 and a variety of big- and small-game seasons continue through December.
“If you are in doubt about what you’re looking at, or if you’re not sure what’s beyond the target, don’t shoot,” said Tony Gurzick, southwest assistant regional manager for the DOW, “When you’re firing a rifle, a mistake can have serious consequences.”
Hunters should not rely only on their rifle scopes. Use binoculars to scan areas and to get a positive identification of animals that can’t be seen clearly.
Before pulling the trigger, big game hunters must be certain to be shooting at an animal that is legal to kill. Hunters with cow elk tags must be careful not to shoot a spike bull. It is illegal to kill yearling males. But because the small, slender spikes can be difficult to see, these young bulls often are mistaken for cows. It is illegal to shoot a spike bull. In most units, for a bull to be legal, the elk’s rack must show at least four points on one side or one brow tine that is at least five inches long.
Look carefully before shooting at animals standing in a bunch. A bullet fired from a high-powered rifle can continue through one animal and hit another.
Hunters also are cautioned not to mistake a moose for an elk.
Be aware that lynx now live throughout Colorado’s mountain areas and are listed as a threatened species. Killing a lynx could result in a serious fine and possible jail time.
Lynx look similar to bobcats. The season for bobcats starts on Dec. 1.
“Be sure to look closely at whatever kind of small game you are hunting. Lynx are often confused with bobcats,” Gurzick said. “If you are shooting at a coyote, be absolutely certain that it’s a coyote.”
In late September, the DOW received a credible report about a possible sighting of three grizzly bears near Independence Pass. Colorado bear licenses are for black bears only. Grizzly bears are an endangered species.
Besides being aware of the variety of animals in the woods, hunters also must be sure that they aren’t shooting towards any buildings. More and more homes are being built in remote areas and many of them are well hidden.
Domestic livestock also are present throughout Colorado.
“A shot from a rifle can be lethal from more than a mile, so study your hunting area to know what’s there,” Gurzick said.