JACKSON, Wyo. — Regardless of valley snow levels, winter wildlife closures remain in effect, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) reminds those eager to get outdoors.
Wildlife range closures in the Jackson region generally run from December through the end of April to protect critical winter survival areas for deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep and more. Intrusion by humans or dogs can cause wildlife to flee, using up precious energy they need to survive a usually harsh season. Even though some of these ranges might appear to have exited winter mode, WGFD is urging recreationists to remember the rules.
“Despite mild weather and minimal snow at lower elevations, these seasonal closures are crucial for minimizing human-caused disturbances that can be stressful to wintering wildlife,” WGFD stated on Tuesday. “Additionally, these closures lessen impacts on forage available on native winter ranges.”
WGFD, Bridger-Teton National Forest and Grand Teton National Park each impose their own wildlife closures. See a map that includes all of the agencies’ restrictions in Teton County here.
