DNR QUESTION OF THE WEEK

[Lee Borgersen]

                       DNR QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Q:  Technology has improved hunting and fishing, but some pieces of equipment, such as cell phones and two-way radios, can become illegal if misused. What is the state law on the use of such communications devices?

A: Using walkie-talkies, cell phones, remote control or other radio equipment to take big game or small game is unlawful. People may possess them, but cannot use them in pursuit of game.

Also, a DNR permit is required to take unprotected animals with the aid of radio equipment. Weasels, coyotes, gophers, porcupines, striped skunks and all other mammals for which there are no closed seasons or other protection are unprotected animals. They may be taken in any manner, except with the aid of artificial lights or by using motor vehicle to drive, chase, run over or kill the animal. Poisons may not be used except in accordance with all label regulations of the state Department of Agriculture and federal Environmental Protection Agency.

House sparrows, starlings, common pigeons, Eurasian collared dove, chukar partridge, quail, other than northern bobwhite, and monk parakeets are unprotected and may be taken at any time.

- Rich Sprouse, DNR Enforcement Division information officer