Hunting season in Maine is heating up. Birding season begins statewide next weekend.
Another hunting season starts next weekend. September 24 marks the beginning of Maine’s highland bird and small game seasons. Some migratory bird seasons also start the next Saturday, such as woodcock. Northern waterfowl areas will open to regular duck hunting on September 26 and southern areas on October 1. Upland birds that can be hunted include grouse, quail, and pheasant. Small game species include gray squirrel and snowshoe hare.
Hunters must possess a valid Maine hunting license or small game hunting license. If you hunt ducks or other migratory birds, a State Migratory Waterbird Permit and a Federal Migratory Waterbird Permit are required. Federal migratory waterfowl permits can be purchased at a local post office.
The Maine Department of Inland Fish and Wildlife reminds hunters “It is imperative that the hunter be certain of his target before discharging a firearm.” The ruffed grouse and spruce grouse can look very similar, however, there is no open season on the spruce grouse. More information can be found on how to identify the differences between the two birds. here.
Saturday, September 17 is the Fall Youth Wild Turkey Hunting Day. Only junior hunters in possession of a valid junior hunting license may participate in special junior hunting days. Daily bag limits still apply, which is two wild turkeys per day in everybody Wildlife Management Districts open to turkey hunting.
The season opens to everyone on Monday, September 19.
Last year, the Maine Interior Department of Fish and Wildlife made changes to the tagging and registration requirements for harvested turkeys. Now, hunted fall turkeys do not need to be tagged or registered for transportation. harvested spring turkeys they are still required to be fully labeled and registered.
Pigeon Hill Preserve overlooks the ocean, abandoned silver mine
Pigeon Hill in Steuben is a worthwhile addition to your summer bucket list. At 317 feet above sea level, the summit of Pigeon Hill is the highest in Washington County. From Bald Granite Peak, hikers can take in incredible views of the ocean, distant coastal mountains, and many nearby islands.