Hunting in California involves the pursuit of wild animals, usually for food or trade. The animals, or game, usually are mammals (large or small) and birds (mostly fowl or pheasants). Hunting can be a recreational activity, or it can serve another purpose, such as being part of wildlife management plans or pest control.
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Some species, such as deer, can reproduce beyond an area’s capacity to support them with food, water, and other necessities. These animals can become destructive of property, pose dangers to drivers, and suffer from the lack of food and water. Hunters perform a service when they “thin the herd” to alleviate some of the problems caused by deer, including those seen in cities and suburbs. The
California Department of Fish and Wildlife has created a guide with regulations about hunting deer in urban areas. Here are some important points to remember:
- In California, the mule deer and the black-tailed deer are the most common species seen.
- These species are often spotted in foothill and coastal areas where woodlands are nearby for cover and protection.
- They eat a variety of plants, including grasses, flowering plants, woody plants, and ornamental trees and shrubs. They also consume nuts, fruits, and vegetables, planted for human harvesting.
- Most deer eat when they are difficult to see—in the evening or early morning.
- Hoof prints can be seen where the deer have visited for food. Other methods of detecting deer in an area are sighting droppings, paths or wear on foliage.
- Deer are classified as game animals with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. However, special permits from the local game warden are needed by anyone who wants to shoot them—even on private property.
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- Local law enforcement authorities must also be consulted in any plans to hunt in cities or suburbs.
- The Game Management Branch of the CDFW maintains programs for native species, including deer, bear, bighorn sheep, elk, pigs, and other animals. They are responsible for conservation, habitat management, and hunting regulations.
- Traps and poisons are not legal for use on these animals in California.
Questions regarding hunting in California, including managing deer in urban and suburban settings, should be addressed with the
Department of Fish and Wildlife.
This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.
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