Hunting in New York: 5 Invasive Species to New York and Its Rules for Hunting Them

Invasive species are animals that are in a foreign environment that is unable to stabilize them, which causes problems. Many of these animals can become nuisance animals. In New York, the only invasive animal listed on their state website is the Eurasian boar, although there are other animals that may not be labeled as invasive, but also remain a nuisance that hunters in New York should understand the guidelines on.

Here is a look at five animals, including the invasive breeds and other nuisance breeds, and the rules in for hunting in New York when it comes to these animals.

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1. Eurasian Boars

In September 2015, it will become illegal to import, breed or release any Eurasian boars in the state of New York. Until that time, there are rules in place on hunting these animals in New York and then everything changes after that date. The reason that Eurasian boars are considered invasive is that they directly compete with deer, bear, turkey, squirrel, and waterfowl for food, as well as eating the eggs and nests of birds and reptiles. They are also aggressive towards humans and pets, and carry transmittable diseases.

When a hunter in New York sees a Eurasian boar, they should immediately report them to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regional wildlife office. Hunting and trapping of boars in New York is now illegal. However, law enforcement officials, farmers, and landowners are allowed to take the boars if they are a nuisance when it comes to property damage or are threats to public health and welfare.

2. Coyotes

While some species, such as bobcats, cannot be shot without a DEC permit, the taking of a coyote is legal without a permit if the animal is damaging property. If it is simple a nuisance, a DEC permit is needed. If there is a threat to public safety, the DEC can issue a permit for a landowner to protect the public welfare and safety if proof is provided.

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3. Skunks

When it comes to skunks, a person can take it if it is a public nuisance or is destroying property. However, the laws state that if a person does take a skunk, they must personally bury it immediately.

4. Starlings

More than 150 years ago, a fan of William Shakespeare thought it would be a romantic idea to introduce New York City to a species of bird that the author made famous in his writing. Since that time, the starling has increased its number to more than a million birds in the city. These are birds that destroy crops and kill native species of birds. While a permit is required to hunt the starling, there is no season, and they are unprotected by the state of New York.

5. Snakes and Turtles

While these reptiles are common to causing conflict in New York, it is against the law to take these animals normally. If they are a nuisance or damaging property, they can only be taken with a DEC permit.

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

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