The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are reminding residents and visitors of the greater Kawarthas region that hunting season is well underway.
Hunting season for most small game (including grouse, partridge and hare) and most geese has already started in the region, with duck season starting on Saturday (September 24).
“Residents may see people participating in this outdoor activity,” a press release from Haliburton OPP reads. “Other lawful activities, such as target shooting and clay pigeon shooting, may also be taking place. These also involve the discharge of firearms; residents should not be alarmed as long as this is done safely.”
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In the greater Kawarthas region, the wild turkey hunting season begins in October. Deer season begins in October or November, depending on how the animals are hunted.
For those who want to enjoy an autumn walk in the woods or along trails on public land in rural areas, police recommend taking precautions. This includes Sundays: Sunday hunting is now permitted by provincial regulations in most municipalities in southern Ontario, including all those in the Kawarthas metropolitan region.
“If you frequent areas where these activities take place, make yourself more visible by wearing a brightly colored jacket and/or hat, and be especially careful at dawn or dusk, when colors such as red and green turn brown,” police advise. . “If you take your dog with you, consider putting something brightly colored on him or putting a bell on his collar.”
Police add that it is important that “everyone remains safe when participating in their respective activities.”
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Hunting of migratory birds in Ontario, including ducks and geese, is regulated by the federal government based on provincial wildlife management units. For details on Ontario hunting regulations, season dates and permits, visit the federal government’s website at canada.ca.
In Ontario, the hunting of non-migratory birds and other small game, fur-bearing mammals, and large game, including deer, elk, and moose, is regulated by the provincial government. For details on regulations, wildlife management units, season dates, and outdoor cards and hunting licenses, visit the provincial government website at ontario.ca.