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Annapolis, Md. — Hunting seasons for upland game species including cottontail rabbits and bobwhite quail start on Saturday, November 1. Seasons for other small game species are already underway. Squirrel season opened September 6 and ruffed grouse season began October 4. Rabbits and squirrels are common statewide and can be hunted close to home with minimal equipment.
“Ruffed grouse only occur in the western counties of the state, but are highly prized by upland bird enthusiasts due to the challenging shots they present,” stated Bob Long, DNR’s Upland Game Bird Project Leader. “A morning spent pursuing small game with friends or family provides an active, enjoyable experience for many hunters. It is also a particularly good opportunity for introducing junior hunters to the outdoors.”
Hunters should note that bobwhite quail hunting at Millington Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Kent County will be prohibited again this season. DNR biologists continue to explore a variety of research and management options at this WMA after initiating a habitat restoration project in 2005. Quail hunting is prohibited only on Millington WMA and this closure is necessary in order to assess the benefits of these ongoing habitat management projects. Hunting of other game species will not be affected on the area.
Complete bag limits, season dates and other hunting information can be found at the DNR website www.dnr.maryland.gov/huntersguide. The Maryland Guide to Hunting & Trapping 2008-2009 issued with each hunting license contains detailed information about all of Maryland’s hunting seasons.
