Hunting is a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. If you are like many other hunters, you are looking for new, unique, and exciting places to hunt. In this article, we will discuss different federal land areas that allow hunting. However, it is important to remember that each state has their own sets of rules and regulations when it comes to hunting on their land. This land is typically designated as a wildlife refuge therefore; there are many laws that protect certain species of animals.

Here in this article, we will cover the areas of Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.

Montana

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge encompasses nineteen square miles of land or 12,383 acres. Located in the Great Plains, in Great Falls, Montana it is situated between Great Falls and the Rocky Mountains. The refuge, opened in 1961, provides a stopping ground for at least 199 different species of birds and other animals. Different weather seasons bring different types of birds. For example, in the winter it is not uncommon to see snowy owls, hawks, and chickadees.

The Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge does allow hunting for upland birds and waterfowls. Specific areas are hunting areas and hunters are only allowed in these designated areas. Hunting is only allowed for species such as sharp-tailed grouse, ring-necked pheasants, gray partridge, tundra swans, mergansers, coots, geese, and ducks. You may not hunt for any other species of wildlife such as skunk, raccoon, fox, coyote, or rabbits. To hunt, you must only use non-toxic shots and respect all boundaries of the refuge.

Wyoming

In Wyoming, the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is the federal land designated for protecting and providing habitat for several different species of animals. With 26,400 acres of land, it is accessible to the Green River. Established in 1965, the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is not only home to many fabulous wildlife species, but also a very popular tourist attraction with more than 10,000 visitors each year. Early pioneers, fur trappers, and Indian tribes used this area long ago, which leaves a rich cultural and historic history.

The Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is home to at least 220 different bird species, as well as many mammals. Some species that can be seen at the refuge include ducks, sage grouse, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, moose, bobcat, mule deer, pronghorn, porcupine, and coyote. Hunting is allowed for waterfowl, sage grouse, mule deer, and antelope.

Colorado

The Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge is located in Alamosa, Colorado. Located in the San Luis Valley, this refuge is wetlands that covers more than 11,000 acres of land. There are many different species of bird and wildlife available for viewing at the refuge. As with many other wildlife refuges, the birds and animals you see at any given time, depends on the time of year. Many species of birds visit at various times of the year, usually defined by the seasons, summer, spring, winter, and fall.

To hunt at the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge you are required to have a hunting permit, this is issued by the state at various different locations. Aside from the permit, you will also have to have any licenses that are required at the state and federal level. If any stamps and validations are required, you should be sure to have those as well. You should make note that the Colorado law prohibits the use of any handguns or rifles. You may only use non-toxic shots to hunt and lead shots are illegal to possess or use during hunting.

Hunting in every state is different and each state has their own specific rules and regulations. It is important to learn about these before you go hunting so you can be sure to abide and follow all rules and regulations. The internet can be a great sources for determining what is allowed and what is not in each area. Consult with the specific federal parks if you have any questions about their hours of operation, season opening, rules on weaponry, and ammunition.

Most of all, enjoy your time hunting and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. While hunting may be your biggest love, you should take a moment to view all that nature has to offer while at any of these refuges as well. Each one has become a landmark for many different species of wildlife, some endangered and some threatened.