Hunting in New Hampshire: 7 Things to Know About Urban Deer Hunting in Cities and Suburbs

Acres of forestland make hunting in New Hampshire enjoyable and accessible to everyone. The forests offer large game, such as bear, moose and deer, waterfowl, pheasants, wild turkeys, and many other species to hunt. Among the most coveted game is the deer, a species that has become so plentiful that they are often seen in developed areas, such as in suburbs and cities. If you are thinking of pulling out your shotgun, you should be aware of issues and regulations regarding urban deer hunting in New Hampshire.

ALERT: Should Obama Have More Control Over Guns? Vote Now

1. The numbers of white-tailed deer have grown drastically since the 1800s, when many people lived off the land. Now estimated at 80,000, the deer population increases are related to the development of farmlands and landscaping that provide new food sources.
2. With a lack of predators in a suburban environment, deer populations grow very quickly in these areas.
3. Healthy deer populations living in forests can exceed the food resources found in the forests. This causes some to seek new food sources, which is why they migrate into developed areas.
4. Deer in urban areas are fair game, but hunters must follow all of the hunting laws that apply in the forest, including licensing and observing seasons. They must also follow additional restrictions.

VOTE NOW: Is New Hampshire Gov. Maggie Hassan Doing a Good Job?

5. According to the New Hampshire Fish and Wildlife Department, "It is illegal to discharge a firearm of shoot a bow and arrow or crossbow within 300 feet of a permanently occupied dwelling without the permission of the owner or occupant, or from the owner of the land."
6. "A firearm may not be discharged within 300 feet of any commercial, educational or medical building; or any outdoor public gathering place," as noted in the New Hampshire Hunting Digest.
7. Other restrictions apply to firing weapons near highways and public access ways. Never fire a weapon in an inhabited area without consulting law local enforcement agencies for advice. Questions about hunting in urban and suburban areas should be directed to the county sheriff's office.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

URGENT: Do You Support Obama's Plans for Stricter Gun Control? Vote Now

Related Stories:

• Hunting in Kentucky: 3 Animals to Hunt in the Summer

  
• 
Hunting in Colorado: 8 Things for Landowners to Know About Hunting on Private Property