JACKSON – Despite recent warm weather and snowmelt, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s (WGFD) Jackson Region is reminding the public that winter range closures still remain in effect until Thursday, May 1, at 6 a.m. to protect wintering wildlife.
The WGFD’s Wildlife Habitat Management Areas that are still closed to all human presence include Horse Creek, Camp Creek, South Park, Grey’s River (Alpine), Patrol Cabin, Teton and Woods Canyon.
According to the WGFD, On May 1, at 6 a.m., Wyoming residents can begin collecting shed antlers in Collection Area 1, which is the region surrounding Jackson, Evanston and Rock Springs. While nonresidents can access the area on this date, they are not permitted to collect antlers until May 8, at 6 a.m. Additionally, nonresidents 15 years and older must have a conservation stamp to collect shed antlers or horns in Collection Area 1.
The collection of antlers is prohibited year-round in Grand Teton National Park, per the WGFD.
“Before venturing out, be sure to know which lands are open,” the WGFD said in a statement. “It is illegal to enter any person’s private property to collect antlers or horns without the permission of the property owner or the person in charge of the property, regardless of the time of year.”
The WGFD wrote on its website that the collection of shed antlers means to search for, locate, stockpile or possess shed antlers and horns of big game animals on public land. The purchase of a Wyoming Interstate Game Tag is required to remove the head or skull with antlers and horns from a big game animal.
To report shed antler or horn collection violations, call the STOP Poaching Hotline at 1-877-943-3847 (1-877-WGFD-TIP) or text the keyword WGFD to TIP411 (847-411). Visit the Game and Fish website for maps, regulations, and additional information on antler collection or call the Jackson Regional Office at (307)733-2321.
