The threat to the native fauna of Louisiana is just as serious from invasive species as it is in other states. Because of its coastline and port areas the danger of non-native species getting by boat is very high. The state’s borders are difficult to patrol and Louisiana relies on people hunting to control populations that threaten the weaker species native to the Pelican State.
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Here are 4 invasive species to Louisiana and the rules for their hunting:
1. The Nutria
This beaver like mammal was introduced to Louisiana during the 1930s by the fur industry. Now living wild in the state, the Nutria is a voracious eater of marsh plants, which contributes to riverbank destruction and erosion on the coast. In an effort to control the spread of this invasive species the state allows year round hunting of the Nutria, no bag limits and offers a bounty of $5 per tail in some areas.
2. The Feral Hog
The control of this species is of particular concern to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. They uproot tree seedlings and do a lot of damage to natural forest regeneration. A particularly aggressive eater the feral hog is a strong competitor for food sources and can adapt easily to any environment. The LDWF is also worried about the feral hog preying on nesting eggs, reptiles, and even deer fawn. In an effort to control the spread of the feral hog, the state allows hunting throughout the year, day and night-time hunting, trapping, and even shooting from helicopter in some circumstances.
3. Silver and Bighead Carp
These two Asian species of carp cause a lot of damage in Louisiana waterways. They can reach a size of over 60 pounds and feed on native species, leading to a drop in numbers and a break in the food chain of other fish. Around some waters in the north of the state these carp have replaced the native species. In an effort to control the spread of the
"Silverfin" carp, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) do not having any restrictions on their fishing or any quotas on numbers caught.
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4. Rabbits
There are two breeds of rabbit native to the state of Louisiana: the eastern cottontails and the swamp rabbit.
The two are protected under state provisions allowing for the hunting of them in controlled seasons and imposing quotas and bag limits. Any other rabbit species are determined as pests and can be hunted without restriction in the state. Rabbits can do a lot of damage to farmland and because they breed freely, populations can be difficult to control.
This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.
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