R H O D E I S L A N D

Hunting Trapping&

Visit our website: www.dem.ri.gov

State of Rhode Island & Providence PlantationsDepartment of Environmental Management • Division of Fish & Wildlife

2 0 1 4 - 2 0 1 5 R E G U L A T I O N G U I D E

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Table of Contents 2 ........ Director’s Message 3 ........ Licenses & Permits 4 ........ General Information 6 ........ Legal Shooting Hours 7 ........ Hunting Season Summary 8 ........ Article - Hunter Education

Programs 10 ...... Migratory Game Hunting 11 ...... Small Game Hunting 12 ...... Article - Sea Ducks and

Offshore Wind Energy 14 ...... Turkey Hunting

15 ...... Article - Native Snakes of Rhode Island

16 ...... Deer Hunting 19 ...... Article - Deer Hunting

Opportunities 20 ...... Special Deer Seasons 21 ...... Checking & Tagging 22 ...... Zone Map 23 ...... State Lands 24 ...... Article - Rhode Island’s

Fur Trapping 25 ...... Trapping

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee

RI Department of Environmental Management

DirectorJanet Coit

Associate Director Larry Mouradjian

Assistant Director for Natural ResourcesCatherine Sparks

Division of Law EnforcementSteven H. Hall, Chief

Division of Fish and WildlifeWildlife Section

Jay Osenkowski, Deputy Chief - Wildlife

Brian Tefft, Principal Wildlife BiologistCharles Brown, Principal Wildlife Biologist

Christopher Raithel, Principal Wildlife Biologist

Hunter Safety EducationKaren Unsworth,

Hunter Education CoordinatorRI DFW Education Center

1B Camp E-Hun-TeeExeter, RI 02822(401) 539-0019

karen.unsworth@dem.ri.gov

RI Division of Fish and WildlifeWildlife Section

277 Great Neck RoadWest Kingston, RI 02892

(401) 789-0281fishandwildlife@dem.ri.gov

R H O D E I S L A N D

Hunting Trapping&2 0 1 4 - 2 0 1 5 R E G U L A T I O N G U I D E

2014–15 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

This high-quality guide is offered to you by the Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife, through its unique partnership with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC.

J.F. Griffin is an award winning publishing housethat specializes in producing state fish & wildliferegulation books. J.F. Griffin supports RIDFW’s staff in the design, layout and editing of the guides. They also manage the marketing and sales of advertising to appropriate businesses within the book.

The revenue generated through ad sales significantly lowers production costs and generates savings. These savings translate into additional funds for other important fisheries and habitat programs.

If you have any feedback or are interested in advertising, please contact us at 413.884.1001 or online at www.JFGriffin.com

About this Guide

Fully searchable Live hyperlinks to expanded content

Email pages One-click printing

www.eRegulations.com/RI/hunting

430 Main St. Suite 5 | Williamstown, MA 01267

available online in a new Digital Edition!

Designers: Jon Gulley, Erin Murphy, Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski and Dane Fay

On the cover: Rutting Buck Guy Sagi | Dreamstime.com

On behalf of Governor Lincoln Chafee, I am excited to introduce the first Rhode Island Hunting and Trapping Regulation Guide in magazine format.

Over the past four years the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has im-plemented a host of new initiatives – including this hunting and trapping guide – to enhance customer service and satisfaction. This new publication is designed to inform the public about current regulations related to the harvest of game animals and highlight the work, initi-atives and research conducted by the Division of Fish & Wildlife to effectively manage species and provide excellent hunting opportunities for its constituents.

Rhode Island’s outstanding natural are-as – its fields, forests, rivers and coastal areas – offer tremendous opportunities for hunting and trapping. DEM is committed to engaging

the public in shooting and trapping sports and providing for the conservation of wildlife species through land acquisition and protection. During the past five years the Division of Fish & Wildlife has acquired 1,640 additional acres for conservation and hunting opportunity, utilizing funding received through hunter contributions. Stewardship of our conservation lands supports multiple public benefits, with a focus on species sustainability, public access and harvest opportunity.

In addition to providing a way for residents and visitors to engage in outdoor recrea-tion, hunting contributes to the economic health of the state. According to the most recent statistics from the US Fish & Wildlife Service’s National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation (2011), residents and tourists spend over $18 million annually in Rhode Island on hunting-related expenditures including food, lodging, transportation, and equipment. In addition, the survey notes that a combined total of $200 million is spent annually in Rhode Island on trip and equipment-related expenditures for wildlife-watching activities.

This publication would not have been possible without the support of Rhode Island’s hunt-ing community. In fact, this is your publication, funded via your contributions to the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (Pittman-Robertson Act) through the sale of licenses and purchase of hunting equipment. Hunter contributions to conservation have been unparal-leled and will support lasting benefits for generations. As Director, I extend a sincere thank you to all the sportsmen and sportswomen who have contributed to this valuable conserva-tion program.

We hope this guide enhances your hunting experiences, while encouraging you to be respectful of the environment and fellow hunters. Enjoy the excitement of the outdoors in beautiful Rhode Island, and the tranquility and connection to nature that the experience of hunting and trapping provides.

Janet CoitDirector

2

Report Game ViolationsRIDEM Environmental Police Officers enforce all of the hunting, game and fish regulations statewide and are always present and on guard to protect these valuable natural resources for all of our citizens. These officers have broad responsibilities for enforcement of Game Laws and Regulations for freshwater fishing, hunting, as well as recreational and commercial Marine resources and many other state Laws and Regulations.

You can assist them by reporting wildlife violations by calling them in to the 24 hour hotline at DEM.

Turn In Poachers! – 401-222-3070 - 24 Hours/7 days week

Welcome Letter

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 3

Licenses & permits

Licenses & PermitsNo person shall hunt, pursue, take or kill any wild bird or animal in the state without first having obtained a Rhode Island hunting license (RIGL 20-13-1). Hunters must have a license in possession, on their person, at all times and shall present it for inspection to any authorized person demanding same. Failure to present a license shall make a person liable to the same penalties as if he or she was hunting without a license (RIGL 20-2-9). Licensed hunters and trappers are subject to inspection of any boat, vehicle, game bag, blind, stand, or other paraphernalia used in conjunction with licensed activity (RIGL 20-2-32). Licenses may be sus-pended or revoked because of violations of hunting rules and regulations (RIGL 20-2-13).

The possession of a valid Rhode Island hunting, or combination hunting and fishing license, shall serve as a permit to hunt State Manage-ment Areas (RIGL 20-18-2 and 20-18-3). This permit shall be valid only from the first day of season to the last day in February and spring turkey season except when check stations are in operation or when special per-mits are required for deer, waterfowl, or turkey hunting on state lands. The carrying of firearms on state management areas at any other time is prohibited.

Hunting Licenses are available from DEM Division of Licensing at 235 Promenade St., Providence, RI 02908 (401) 222-3576; most city and town clerks (licenses only); most sporting goods stores; and http://www.dem.ri.gov/. To replace a lost or stolen license or permit, contact DEM Division of Licensing.

License Type Fee

Resident Hunting (must be 15 years old)1 $18.00

Combination (Hunting & Fishing) $33.00

Non-Resident Hunting (must be 15 years old)1 $45.00

Non-Resident (3-day hunting) Tourist License $16.00

Permanent Resident Combination (over 65 or disabled) No fee3

Resident and Non-Resident Active Military Personnel $18.00

Resident Deer2 $12.50

Non-Resident Deer2 $25.50

Turkey Permit (Resident) $7.50

Turkey Permit (Non-Resident) $20.00

RI Waterfowl Stamp $7.50

RI Gamebird Permit (Resident and Non-Resident) $15.50

RI HIP Permit No fee

All Outdoors Package Permit (Resident) $75.00

Fur Buyer (Resident) $10.00

Fur Buyer (Non-Resident) $30.00

Shooting Preserve $25.00

Shooting Preserve Hunting License $3.50

Trapping (Resident) $10.00

Trapping (Non-Resident) if reciprocal privileges allowed $30.00 1 NOTE: A Junior Hunting License is available for persons age 12-14

years of age upon completion of a Hunter Safety Course. The youth hunter must hunt in the immediate company of an adult, 21 years of age or older, holding a valid RI hunting license.

2 Individual seasonal permits required for each deer hunted. 3 Any resident reaching 65 years may obtain a free permanent

license from the offices of the DEM or any city or town clerk. Per-manent disability licenses are available at the offices of the DEM.

Special PermitsSpecial Hunting Permits are available at no extra fee by sending a self addressed stamped envelope to: DEM Division of Fish & Wildlife, Great Swamp Field Headquarters, 277 Great Neck Rd, W. Kingston, RI 02892 (401) 789-0281.

• Beaver trapping permit

• Burlingame North Camp hunting permit

• Early Canada Goose Hunting permit

• Fisher trapping permit

• Grills Preserve hunting permit

• Late Season Canada goose hunting permit

• Northwest Cooperative Hunting Area deer permit

• South Shore Management Area Goose hunting permit

• State lands trapping permit

Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program (HIP)The HIP program was designed to aid state and wildlife agencies and the US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) better information on managing our nation’s migratory bird resources. All migratory bird hunters need to obtain a permit and answer a small survey. HIP permits are available free through all license vendors and DEM.

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4 2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

General information

Our MissionOur mission is to ensure that the Freshwater, Marine and Wildlife resources of the State of Rhode Island will be conserved and managed for equitable and sustainable use.

Hunting AbstractThis Hunting Abstract is a summary of the rules, regulations, seasons and bag limits for the 2014-2015 Rhode Island hunting season. For more detailed information, see the General Laws of Rhode Island, obtainable in most pub-lic libraries. A complete copy of the Hunting Regulations for the 2014-2015 Season can be viewed online at: www.dem.ri.gov/pubs/regs/regs/fishwild/hunt1415.pdf

Copies are available by contacting the Divi-sion of Fish and Wildlife.

Significant Regulation Changes & Highlights 2014-20151. Season limit on antlered deer has been re-duced to two (2) antlered deer. No hunter shall take more than two (2) antlered deer in total during the deer season, statewide.

2. The use of crossbow for turkey hunting or take of any wild bird is prohibited by law (RIGL 20-14-7).

3. All deer hunters (regardless of method) are required to check their deer during the first four (4) days of the muzzleloader season November 8 through 11.

4. The bag limit for Antlered Deer is two (2) statewide except on Prudence Island (Zone 3), where only one antlered deer may be taken per season.

5. The season bag limit for antlered bucks on Block Island (Zone 4) is two (2) and hunters may not exceed the statewide bag limit.

6. All Outdoor Deer Permits (for Resident Hunters only) are issued for two (2) antlered deer and six (6) antlerless deer (8 total) and may be used in any combination during any open deer season. The total number of deer that may be taken with the AO deer permit is 8.

7. All replacement tags are issued for taking an additional antlerless deer only.

8. Crossbows are now approved for use by all archery hunters during the archery deer season September 15 to January 31, provided the hunt-er has successfully completed the bow hunter education course or otherwise qualifies for an archery deer permit.

9. Expanded Island Hunting: Archery hunting will begin on September 15, 2014 for both Block Island and Prudence Island.

DefinitionsAntlerless deer - deer having no antlers or antlers less than three (3) inches in length.

Bearded turkey - a turkey that carries a visible beard, i.e., a tuft of stiff filament-like feathers projecting outward and downward from the center of the chest.

Box trap - any trigger operated device intended to restrain an animal by confinement in box or cage.

Conibear-type trap - “conibear” model traps and similar body-gripping traps and devices, whether or not enclosed in or comprising part of a box, tube, or other enclosing device.

Crossbow - a bow and string (either compound or re-curve) that launches an arrow, mounted upon a stock, with a trigger unit that holds the string and limbs under tension until released. The trigger unit must have a working safety.

Daylight fluorescent orange - the color orange having a dominant wave length between 595 and 606 nanometers, an excitation purity not less than 85 percent, and a lumination factor not less than 40 percent.

Driving deer/cooperative drive - to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause a deer to move in a direction toward a person or persons known to be waiting for a deer.

Deer Management Zone - designed to target and achieve harvest and management goals for deer in RI.

Paraplegic - an individual afflicted with paral-ysis of the lower half of the body with involve-ment of both legs.

Proficiency testing - the measurable demon-stration of skills with bows and arrows or use of firearms using a set of standards as determined by the hunter education program.

Written permission - means annual written permission of the owner of the land for any current deer season.

Hunter Safety Course Requirements & LicensingPersons applying for a hunting license or archery permit for the first time or not having been a member of the armed forces must com-plete a course in safe hunting or archery prac-tices and have been issued a Hunter Education Certificate to obtain a license. Applicants must present a valid hunter safety certificate from Rhode Island or other state, or possess a previ-ous RI hunting license. A list of hunter safety instructors, dates, and locations of classes is available from the Hunter Safety Office: (401) 539-0019 or on the web: www.dem.ri.gov

Rhode Island Environmental Police – Division of Law Enforcement

Steven H. Hall, ChiefThe mission of the Environmental Police is to protect our natural resourc-es and ensure compliance with all envi-ronmental conservation laws through law enforcement and education.

The history of the Environmental Police dates back to 1842 when the first game wardens were appointed to the Commission of Shellfisheries.

Today, Environmental Police Officers are sworn law enforcement officers who are responsible for patrolling and enforcing all laws, rules and regu-lations pertaining to the state’s fish, wildlife, boating safety and marine resources as well as all criminal and motor vehicle laws within the state parks and management areas. Officers patrol over 60,000 acres of state land, 92 salt and freshwater boat launching and fishing areas, 300 miles of rivers and streams, and 417 miles of coastline. They are also cross-deputized with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service. During their patrols, they educate the public on the protection of our natural resources and provide safety for the public while enjoying Rhode Island’s outdoors.

To report violations, please call: (401) 222-3070

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 5

Prohibited Activities• No loaded rifles or shotguns in or on vehicles

(RIGL 20-13-8).

• No shooting at, hunting, or pursuing game along, upon, or across a public highway (RIGL 20-13-9).

• No hunting while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs (RIGL 20-13-10).

• It is a violation of law, punishable by a fine and imprisonment, to fire “into” land for which one does not have landowner permission.

• No hunting on posted land or state parks, removing or defacing posters thereon, or doing willful damage to property (RIGL 11-44-4,5).

• No more than five persons to hunt in unison (RIGL 20-13-11).

• Target or trap shooting on state lands is only allowed on provided ranges (RIGL 32-2-4).

• Shooting at any animal at anytime while such animal is on a telephone or electric line, pole, or tower or any communication device (RIHR 10.9).

Shooting Restrictions• It is unlawful to carry a loaded weapon

outside legal shooting hours. Provided the hunter is stationary, his / her weapon may be loaded within fifteen (15) minutes prior to legal shooting hours.

• The use of laser sights or night vision on any firearm or bow while hunting is illegal (RIHR 1.5.7.1).

• No lead shot larger than No. 2 at any time (RIGL 20-13-13).

• No rifles larger than .22 caliber rimfire at any time; however, from Apr. 1 to Sept. 30, (both dates inclusive), centerfire rifles no larger than .229 caliber may be used during daylight hours (RIGL 20-13-13).

• Discharge of a firearm within 500 feet of an occupied dwelling without written permission.

• Archery deer hunting, within 200 feet of an occupied dwelling without written permission.

Wildlife Restrictions• The importation, exportation, possession,

liberation, or sale of any mute swan and/or eggs thereof, or live pen-reared or hybrid wild turkey and/or eggs thereof (RIHR 10.2, 10.3).

• Importing of live birds or animals without permit (RIGL 20-17-9).

• Taking of birds by any method other than shotgun, bow and arrow, or falconry without permit (RIGL 20-14-17).

• The sale of game, except as provided (RIGL 20-13-14).

• Spotlighting for wild animals and birds is prohibited on both Prudence Island & Patience Island, from October 1 – January 31, and at all times on Block Island.

• Spotlighting is prohibited on the mainland from Sept 15-Jan. 31.

Important Laws & Regulations Pertaining to WildlifeThe Lacey Act of 1900, the first federal game law, regulates interstate and international commerce in wildlife. The term “wildlife”, for the purposes of the act, means any wild animal, wild bird, amphibian, reptile, mollusk, or crustacean, or their dead bodies, parts, eggs, or offspring, but does not include migratory birds for which protection is afforded under the Mi-gratory Bird Treaty Act. Briefly, action can be taken against anyone who transports, ships, or sells wildlife in interstate or foreign commerce contrary to state or foreign laws, or transports any package not properly labeled or tagged.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act, signed in 1918, includes agreements between the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Mexico, Japan, and Russia for the protection of migratory bird populations. Migratory birds are protected by the federal government with provisions allow-ing state regulation. All birds, their parts, nests, and eggs are protected, except as provided by open hunting seasons. Refer to Rhode Island waterfowl abstract for more information.

Reptiles & AmphibiansThe removal from the wild, for any purposes, of any reptile or amphibian (to include eggs or nest) except bullfrogs, green frogs and snapping turtles is prohibited except by special permit (RIHR 8.1, 8.3). The release into the wild of any non-native reptile or amphibian is prohibited.

The following species of reptiles and amphib-ians (to include eggs or nests) are protected and possession without permit is prohibited at all times: timber rattlesnake, (Crotalus horridus); northern diamondback terrapin, (Malaclemys terrapin); wood turtle, (Clemmys insculpta); eastern box turtle, (Terrapene carolina); spotted turtle, (Clemmys guttata); and bog turtle, (Clemmys uhlenbergi) (RIHR 8.2). The taking of snapping turtles at any time shall be limited to turtles with a minimum carapace length of 12 inches, using: turtle traps, snagging, snaring, grabbing, jugging, bow and arrow, or while legally fishing. Traps and jugs must carry the trapper’s name and address (RIHR 8.1, 8.2).

Fluorescent Orange RequirementsFluorescent orange safety clothing is required during the hunting season statewide for all hunters. To meet this requirement, safety cloth-ing must be solid daylight fluorescent orange. Fluorescent camouflage does not meet this requirement. The hunter orange must be worn above the waist and be visible in all directions. Examples are: a hat that covers 200 square inches or combination of hat and vest covering 500 square inches.

• 200sq. in. by small game hunters during the small game season.

• 200sq. in. by fall turkey hunters while traveling.

• 200sq. in. by muzzleloader hunters during the muzzle-loading deer season.

• 200sq. in. by archers when traveling to/from stands during the muzzleloader deer season only.

• 500sq. in. by all hunters (including archers) and all users of management areas and undeveloped state parks during all portions of shotgun deer seasons.

• Hunters using Pop-up blinds during the firearms deer season must display 200 square inches of fluorescent orange visible on the outside of the blind from all directions. Hunters must also wear orange in accord-ance with the rules for the specific seasons while in the blind.

• Exemptions: Specifically, waterfowl hunters while hunting from a boat or a blind, over water or field, when done in conjunction with decoys; crow hunting over decoys, spring turkey hunters, first segment dove hunters, not required in areas limited to Archery by regulation.

All Other Users:In addition to the above hunter require-

ments, all other users (hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders, etc.) of State Management areas are required to wear 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange from the second Saturday in September to the last day of February and the third Saturday in April to the last day in May, annually.

Hunting & Fishing Supplies

Gear & AccessoriesOpen Every Day!

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6 2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

Shooting Hours & sunrise/sunset

Sunrise / Sunset Table at Providence, RI

Legal Shooting HoursSmall Game Sunrise until Sunset (7:00 AM on opening day)

Deer Hunting 1⁄2 hour before Sunrise to 1⁄2 hour after Sunset

Coyote 1⁄2 hour before Sunrise to 1⁄2 hour after Sunset

Raccoon 6:00 PM 10/1 until 11:59 AM 2/28

Waterfowl 1⁄2 hour before Sunrise until Sunset

Canada Goose (September season only) 1⁄2 hour before Sunrise until 1⁄2 hour after Sunset

Spring Turkey 1⁄2 hour before Sunrise until 1:00PM

Fall Turkey 1⁄2 hour before Sunrise until Sunset

Dove (1st segment) Noon to Sunset

Dove (2nd and 3rd segment) Sunrise to Sunset

Woodcock 1⁄2 hour before Sunrise until Sunset

Day September October November December January February March April MayRise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set Rise Set

1 5:11 18:19 5:43 17:27 6:18 16:40 6:54 16:16 7:13 16:25 6:58 17:01 6:21 17:36 5:29 18:11 4:43 18:44

2 5:13 18:17 5:44 17:26 6:19 16:39 6:55 16:15 7:13 16:26 6:57 17:02 6:19 17:37 5:27 18:12 4:41 18:45

3 5:14 18:16 5:45 17:24 6:20 16:38 6:56 16:15 7:13 16:27 6:56 17:03 6:18 17:38 5:26 18:13 4:40 18:46

4 5:15 18:14 5:46 17:22 6:22 16:36 6:57 16:15 7:13 16:28 6:55 17:05 6:16 17:39 5:24 18:14 4:39 18:47

5 5:16 18:12 5:47 17:21 6:23 16:35 6:58 16:15 7:13 16:29 6:54 17:06 6:15 17:40 5:22 18:15 4:37 18:48

6 5:17 18:11 5:48 17:19 6:24 16:34 6:59 16:15 7:13 16:30 6:53 17:07 6:13 17:42 5:21 18:16 4:36 18:49

7 5:18 18:09 5:49 17:17 6:25 16:33 7:00 16:15 7:13 16:31 6:52 17:08 6:11 17:43 5:19 18:17 4:35 18:50

8 5:19 18:07 5:50 17:16 6:27 16:32 7:00 16:15 7:13 16:32 6:51 17:10 6:10 17:44 5:17 18:19 4:34 18:51

9 5:20 18:06 5:51 17:14 6:28 16:31 7:01 16:15 7:13 16:33 6:49 17:11 6:08 17:45 5:16 18:20 4:33 18:52

10 5:21 18:04 5:52 17:12 6:29 16:30 7:02 16:15 7:13 16:34 6:48 17:12 6:06 17:46 5:14 18:21 4:31 18:54

11 5:22 18:02 5:53 17:11 6:30 16:29 7:03 16:15 7:12 16:35 6:47 17:13 6:05 17:47 5:12 18:22 4:30 18:55

12 5:23 18:00 5:55 17:09 6:31 16:28 7:04 16:15 7:12 16:36 6:46 17:15 6:03 17:49 5:11 18:23 4:29 18:56

13 5:24 17:59 5:56 17:07 6:33 16:27 7:05 16:15 7:12 16:37 6:44 17:16 6:01 17:50 5:09 18:24 4:28 18:57

14 5:25 17:57 5:57 17:06 6:34 16:26 7:05 16:15 7:11 16:39 6:43 17:17 6:00 17:51 5:08 18:25 4:27 18:58

15 5:26 17:55 5:58 17:04 6:35 16:25 7:06 16:16 7:11 16:40 6:42 17:19 5:58 17:52 5:06 18:26 4:26 18:59

16 5:27 17:53 5:59 17:03 6:36 16:24 7:07 16:16 7:10 16:41 6:40 17:20 5:56 17:53 5:04 18:27 4:25 19:00

17 5:28 17:52 6:00 17:01 6:38 16:23 7:07 16:16 7:10 16:42 6:39 17:21 5:55 17:54 5:03 18:29 4:24 19:01

18 5:29 17:50 6:01 17:00 6:39 16:23 7:08 16:17 7:09 16:43 6:38 17:22 5:53 17:55 5:01 18:30 4:23 19:02

19 5:30 17:48 6:03 16:58 6:40 16:22 7:09 16:17 7:09 16:44 6:36 17:24 5:51 17:57 5:00 18:31 4:22 19:03

20 5:31 17:46 6:04 16:57 6:41 16:21 7:09 16:17 7:08 16:46 6:35 17:25 5:50 17:58 4:58 18:32 4:21 19:04

21 5:32 17:45 6:05 16:55 6:42 16:21 7:10 16:18 7:08 16:47 6:33 17:26 5:48 17:59 4:57 18:33 4:21 19:05

22 5:33 17:43 6:06 16:54 6:44 16:20 7:10 16:18 7:07 16:48 6:32 17:27 5:46 18:00 4:55 18:34 4:20 19:06

23 5:34 17:41 6:07 16:52 6:45 16:19 7:11 16:19 7:06 16:49 6:30 17:28 5:44 18:01 4:54 18:35 4:19 19:06

24 5:35 17:40 6:08 16:51 6:46 16:19 7:11 16:20 7:05 16:51 6:29 17:30 5:43 18:02 4:52 18:36 4:18 19:07

25 5:36 17:38 6:10 16:49 6:47 16:18 7:12 16:20 7:05 16:52 6:27 17:31 5:41 18:03 4:51 18:37 4:18 19:08

26 5:37 17:36 6:11 16:48 6:48 16:18 7:12 16:21 7:04 16:53 6:26 17:32 5:39 18:04 4:49 18:38 4:17 19:09

27 5:38 17:34 6:12 16:47 6:49 16:17 7:12 16:22 7:03 16:54 6:24 17:33 5:38 18:05 4:48 18:40 4:16 19:10

28 5:39 17:33 6:13 16:45 6:50 16:17 7:12 16:22 7:02 16:56 6:23 17:35 5:36 18:07 4:47 18:41 4:16 19:11

29 5:40 17:31 6:14 16:44 6:51 16:16 7:13 16:23 7:01 16:57 – – 5:34 18:08 4:45 18:42 4:15 19:12

30 5:42 17:29 6:16 16:43 6:53 16:16 7:13 16:24 7:00 16:58 – – 5:32 18:09 4:44 18:43 4:14 19:12

31 – – 6:17 16:41 – – 7:13 16:25 6:59 16:59 – – 5:31 18:10 – – 4:14 19:13

Adjust times by one hour for daylight savings when in use.

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 7

Hunting seasons summary

For further information regarding specific bag, possession, and season limits please visit the pages noted in the table below.

Deer Hunting (see page 16 for bag/season limit information)Season Dates

Archery (includes Crossbow) September 15 - January 31 (Zones 1, 2) September 6 and 7 (Youth only Zones 1, 2)

MuzzleloaderNovember 8 - November 30 (Zones 1, 2)

September 27 - October 2 (Zone 1 - Antlerless deer only)December 26 - January 2 (Zones 1, 2 - Antlerless deer only)

Shotgun December 6 - December 21 (Zones 1, 2) December 26 - January 2 (Zones 1, 2 - Antlerless deer only)

Archery: Prudence-Patience Islands (Zone 3)September 15 - January 31

October 7 - 10 (Paraplegic hunters only) October 11 and 12 (Youth only Season)

Archery: Block Island (Zone 4) September 15 - February 28 (Check local ordinance)*

Shotgun & Muzzleloader: Block Island (Zone 4)

November 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 16, 18, 19

January 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30February 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27

Small Game Hunting (see page 11 for bag/season limit information)Season Dates

Red, Gray Fox 10/18/14 - 2/28/15

Gray Squirrel 10/18/14 - 2/28/15

Cottontail Rabbit 10/18/14 - 2/28/15

Hare 10/18/14 - 2/28/15

Ruffed Grouse CLOSED

Quail 10/18/14 - 11/23/14

Pheasant 10/18/14 - 2/28/15

Junior Pheasant 10/11/14 - 10/12/14

Raccoon 10/1/14 - 2/28/15

Migratory Game Hunting (see page 10 for bag/possession limit information)Season Dates

Mourning Dove9/13/14 - 10/12/1410/18/14 - 11/8/1412/17/14 - 1/3/15

King/Clapper Rail 9/1/14 - 11/9/14

Sora/Virginia Rail 9/1/14 - 11/9/14

Snipe 9/1/14 - 11/9/14

Woodcock 10/18/14 - 12/1/14

Crow8/15/14 - 10/5/14

10/11/14 - 11/29/1412/12/14 - 4/12/15

Canada Goose 9/1/14 - 9/30/14

Sea Ducks 10/11/14 - 1/25/15

Wild Turkey Hunting (see page 14 for bag/season limit information)Species Dates

Fall Archery 10/1/14 - 10/31/14

Spring Gobbler 4/29/15 - 5/24/15

Junior & Paraplegic 4/25/15 - 4/26/15

8 2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

Since the start of the program, over 45,000 individuals have successfully completed edu-cation courses and the state has experienced a decline in hunting related accidents and injuries. In addition to offering classroom based hunter education courses, the hunter education program has evolved and now offers an online hunter education course. Offering hunter education courses is an important component

of our program; however we offer several other exciting programs and opportunities described below for new and seasoned hunters and shoot-ers alike!

Great Swamp Shooting RangeThe state owned range located within the Great Swamp Wildlife Management Area in West Kingston is a great place to sight in and prac-

tice safe handling and use of your firearms. The range is open between 8:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., seven days a week from April 1 through September 30. Range safety officers provide briefings on the rules and regulations of the range for new users while also working to ensure the safe use of the range by all. For more information on the range or how to apply for a range permit, please visit the following website:

www.dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/fishwild/huntered/h_ranges.htm

Women’s Day at the RangeOffered annually at the Great Swamp Range, this exciting, free event has become a favorite among sportswomen and female shooters alike! This event is designed to bring women of all ages, backgrounds and experience levels together for a fun filled, safe and exciting day at the range. Range officers, hunter education instructors and environmental police officers provide one on one instruction on the safe handling and use of a wide variety of firearms and archery equipment. In addition to the shooting, we partner with the Federated Rhode Island Sportsmen’s Clubs to provide free lunch and drinks for attendees and volunteers. At the end of the day, attendees leave with a sense of accomplishment, confidence and a new found interest in shooting sports.

Junior Pheasant Training and HuntThis exciting training event is offered free of charge for youth hunters (ages 12-14) on a

Rhode Island’s hunter education program has been providing education and safety training for individuals interested in purchasing a hunting license ever since the education requirement was mandated through legislation passed in 1956.

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

R H O D E I S L A N D ’ S

Hunter Education ProgramsBy Josh Beuth, Hunter Education Instructor

8

Article: hunter education

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 9

weekend in September, followed up by a youth pheasant hunt on the second weekend of Oc-tober. The training event provides participants with instruction on upland hunting safety, rules and regulations of pheasant hunting, behavior of pheasants in the field, hunting with dogs and shotgun shooting. The Federated Rhode Island Sportsmen’s Clubs and Pheasants Forever pro-vide lunch and volunteers that help make this event a success. The training day has limited space and pre-registration is required. Please check the website or call the hunter education office (401-539-0019) for more information!

Training Pointing Dogs 101New in 2013, the hunter education program partnered with the South County Field Trial Club and Purina to offer a free seminar for novice and seasoned pointing dog owners and handlers at the Arcadia Management Area, Dog Training Area, Mid-Way Pavilion. Professional trainers worked with people and their dogs to provide training tips and tricks in prepara-tion for the upland hunting season. The topics included purchasing the right dog, training techniques, equipment and hunting opportu-nities. The event also offered dog owners the opportunity for their dog to point live birds. Please check the website or call the hunter education office for more information regarding this program and a date for this year’s event!

On-Line Hunter Education CourseWith a high demand for hunter education courses and knowing that individual schedules can’t always accommodate a classroom based course, the hunter education program part-

nered with Hunter Ed to offer an International Hunter Education Association and Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife approved online hunter education course. This online course is a great supplement to those classroom based courses that are taught by the numerous volunteer instructors. Individuals may choose to take the course over just a few days or they may stretch it out over several weeks or months provided the course is completed within one year of being started. After completing the course, individuals must take an in-person exam offered at the hunter education office prior to receiving their hunter safety course. There is no fee to take the course; however those that wish to receive their certificate of completion and be eligible for the in-person test must pay a $19.50 fee to cover the vendor’s administrative costs. The online course provides a great study guide for individuals that prefer an in-person class or for those that want to explore the course and program before committing to taking a class. The hunter education program hopes that the online course will increase new-hunter re-cruitment by providing a flexible course option while maintaining high education, safety and training standards.

For more information on the programs and courses described above, please visit the Division of Fish and Wildlife, Hunter Education Program’s website at www.dem.ri.gov . If you have any questions, please contact the hunter education office.

Contact Information:Hunter Education Office: (401) 539-0019Hunter Education Coordinator: Karen Unsworth

Avian DiseaseThe Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is par-ticipating in a nationwide effort of surveillance of wild birds for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1. The Division of Fish & Wildlife (DFW) has, in cooperation with other federal and state agencies, target-ed several species for surveillance. The DFW is using a variety of meth-ods to sample birds and working cooperatively with designated laborato-ries to have samples tested. The state will work with federal agencies and the local media to inform the public in the event of a positive detection of HPAI H5N1.

Although the Highly Pathogenic H5N1 strain of avian influenza has not yet been discovered in North America, DEM DFW would advise hunters to adhere to the following procedures when handling wild birds to avoid any possible exposure.

Tips for Handling and Cooking Game:• Do not handle or butcher game animals that are obviously sick or are

found dead.

• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while cleaning game.

• Wear rubber gloves or cover hands with plastic when cleaning game.

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds after handling game.

• Carry disinfecting wipes or an alcohol-based gel into the field with you for immediate use after handling game.

• Wash tools and working surfaces with soap and water, then disinfect with a 10% solution of chlorine bleach.

• Cook game meat thoroughly—reaching an internal temperature of 165° F.

Migratory Game birds

10

Migratory Game

Species Dates Bag / Possession Limit

Mourning Dove9/13/14 - 10/12/1410/18/14 - 11/8/1412/17/14 - 1/3/15

12 / 36

King/Clapper Rail 9/1/14 - 11/9/14 1 / 3

Sora/Virginia Rail 9/1/14 - 11/9/14 3 / 9

Snipe 9/1/14 - 11/9/14 5 / 19

Woodcock 10/18/14 - 12/1/14 3 / 9

Crow8/15/14 - 10/5/14

10/11/14 - 11/29/1412/12/14 - 4/12/15

Fri, Sat, Sun only inclusive

Fri, Sat, Sun only

Canada Goose 9/1/14 - 9/30/14 15 / 45

Sea Duck 10/11/14 - 1/25/15 5/ 15**

* Shooting hours include 1⁄2 hr after sunset for September Canada goose hunting only.** No more than four (4) of which may be eider, scoter or long-tailed duck.

Federal law requires that migratory game bird hunters use a shotgun that is capable of holding no more than three (3) shells. The methods of taking migratory birds and waterfowl are the same as the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (50 CFR part 20). Refer to Waterfowl Abstract for additional regulations and South Shore MA Regulations. Special DEM Harvest Activity Permit is required to hunt during the September Goose Season and may be obtained by mailing a self addressed stamped enve-lope to: Early Goose Permit, RIDEM, 277 Great Neck Road, West Kingston, R.I. 02892.

Non-Toxic Shot Requirements: No person shall take or attempt to take waterfowl, rails, or snipe within the State of Rhode Island, including Narragansett Bay and its coastal waters, to the three mile limit, while possessing shells loaded with any shot other than non toxic shot or oth-er shot as approved by United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFW).

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

11

Black Ghost Outfitters Guided Archery & Rifle Hunting

Black Bear Over BaitMoose • Deer • Rabbit • Trapping

207.837.7847

www.BlackGhostOutfitters.com

Small Game hunting

Small Game Hunting

Species Dates Daily Bag Limit

Red, Gray Fox 10/18/14 - 2/28/15 none

Gray Squirrel 10/18/14 - 2/28/15 5

Cottontail Rabbit 10/18/14 - 2/28/15 3

Hare 10/18/14 - 2/28/15 1

Ruffed Grouse CLOSED

Quail 10/18/14 - 11/23/14 3

Pheasant 10/18/14 - 2/28/15 2

Junior Pheasant 10/11/14 - 10/12/14 2

Raccoon 10/1/14 - 2/28/15 unlimited

Management AreasSmall game hunters are required to check in and out of the state operated check stations at Great Swamp, Arcadia, Durfee Hill, and Carolina man-agement areas on the following dates: Oct. 18 & 19, 25 & 26, and Nov 1 & 2 and 8 & 9. Check station hours are ½ hour before sunrise to sunset.

Pheasant huntingGamebird Permit is Required. Pheasants are stocked prior to opening day through the end of December. Stocked management areas are: Arca-dia, Black Hut, Big River, Buck Hill, Carolina, Durfee Hill, Great Swamp, Nicholas Farm, Sapowet, Simmons Mill Pond and 8 Rod Farm. Bird stocking occurs weekly from opening day through the end of December.Pheasant stocking does not occur in January and February.

The daily limit for pheasant is 2 either sex birds. Each pheasant must be tagged immediately upon taking. Each gamebird permit allows the taking of 6 pheasants and hunters may purchase multiple permits.

Junior Hunter Pheasant Hunting Dates: Oct. 11 - 12. Open for Junior hunters only at Great Swamp, Durfee Hill, and Eight Rod WMA. Registration is required.Call 789-0281 for information.

Small Game Hunting during the Deer Season:The small game hunting season will remain OPEN during the December shotgun deer season. This allows small game hunting on state manage-ment areas during the shotgun deer season.

Muzzle-loading rifles, no greater than .40 caliber with round ball and patch, may be used for hunting small mammals during established seasons.

Night hunting of raccoons with shot larger than No. 4 or rifles larger than .22 cal. rimfire long-rifle is prohibited.

Block Island Pheasant HuntingPheasant hunting is open on Block Island, with written permission, on Nov. 26; Dec. 17 & 24. Roosters only may be taken from Block Island, bag limit 2 per day.

Air Gun RiflesAir gun rifles are permitted to hunt the following small mammals: squirrels, woodchucks, cottontail rabbits, and snowshoe hare, provided that the air guns are a minimum of .177 caliber and not larger than .22; a minimum of 750 fps velocity with pellets 7.5 grains or larger.

12 2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

Species such as eider, scoter, and long-tailed ducks depend on coastal, nearshore, and offshore habitats particularly during wintering and migration periods. Potential threats to the wintering habitats of sea ducks may be respon-sible for the decline of several sea duck species (North American Bird Conservation Initiative 2009).

Wind power has recently come to the fore-front of attention in the political, industrial, and environmental arena. Attention has focused on how wind power could not only produce a viable source of alternative energy but also stimulate local and regional economies. Rhode Island’s nearshore coastline and offshore waters have been particularly appealing to the wind industry for placement of extensive wind farms because of the consistent, high winds and our

proximity to human population centers that use lots of energy. Current plans propose a 5-tur-bine wind facility just south of Block Island and much larger 150-200 turbine wind facility 15 miles SW of Martha’s Vineyard.

As a result of the coastal, nearshore, and offshore habitat use of sea ducks, they are subject to potential impacts imposed by wind towers placed in these marine environments. Direct mortality is among the concerns for impacts resulting from the placement of wind turbines. However, many sea ducks migrate during the day which may allow them to see and subsequently avoid wind towers and thus reduce mortality (Hüppop et al. 2006). Disturbance or loss of these key marine habitats may have more significant negative impacts on marine birds. Until recently, however, little information was

available for southern New England about the habitat use of seabirds and sea ducks relative to the proposed locations of offshore wind farms.

Rhode Island has been a leader in sea duck research and conservation along the Atlan-tic Coast. Prior to 2009, there was very little information on habitat use, daily movement patterns, and connectivity of sea ducks in Rho-de Island or southern New England. This basic information on movement patterns of sea ducks was lacking in any sort of pre-assessment of impacts of human development such as offshore wind farms in the marine environment. As a re-sult, the RI DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife initiated a partnership with the University of Rhode Island, Sea Duck Joint Venture, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, United States Geological Survey, and Canadian Wildlife Ser-vice in conducting several studies designed to investigate the current distribution and move-ment patterns of sea ducks utilizing Rhode Is-land’s coastal waters during the winter and fall/spring migration periods when most sea ducks inhabit Rhode Island waters. Ancillary infor-mation gained from this initiative included population delineation (spatial boundaries of a population) and winter site fidelity information (faithfulness of returning to a sight).

There have been multiple components of the research including both large-scale boat and plane surveys and satellite telemetry studies of certain sea duck species to determine their movements, habitat use, and survival. In combination these complimentary methods allow for a more complete description of sea duck use of the coastal waters. While the survey data provide a “snapshot” of observed distribution and abundance, the telemetry work provides information on movements and temporal use by individuals. Specifically, these studies provide information about the distribution and abundance of birds in the offshore and coastal environment, movement patterns of certain sea duck species while they inhabit southern New England waters, as well as broad-scale migratory movements between breeding and wintering areas for these species. In addition, we are able to use this information in combination with available environmental variables to statistically model habitat associa-tions of these sea duck species and so identify

key habitat characteristics associated with areas where these species prefer to be

located. As a result of this collabo-

rative effort with URI, and others, this research has been incorporated into the

first national Ocean Special Area Manage-ment Plans (SAMP; http://seagrant.gso.uri.edu/oceansamp/). The findings of this novel research led to certain major management de-cisions including the exclusion of development in water depths less than or equal to 66 feet (20 meters). These relatively shallow coastal waters were designated as Areas Designated for Pres-

Article: sea ducks

Sea ducks are one of the primary wildlife species utilizing coastal habitats. Rhode Island provides habitat for tens of thousands of sea ducks and seabirds.

S E A D U C K S A N D

OFFSHORE WINDENERGY

A male black scoter with the satellite transmitter extending from its back.

Photo courtesy Jay Osenkowski

By Jay Osenkowski, Deputy Chief - Wildlife, RIDFW

13

ervation primarily because of their ecological value for sea duck foraging habitat.

During this process we have learned a great deal regarding the interconnectivity of sea duck use of habitats throughout southern New England (SNE; NY – Cape Cod) and the importance of this region to sea duck con-servation on the Atlantic coast. We continue to learn more about sea duck abundance, distribution, and use of SNE waters in an effort to best protect and conserve these species in hopes of maintaining healthy sustainably hunted populations for generations to come.

Jay Osenkowski and his son releasing an adult male eider.

Pho

to b

y: J

osh

Beu

th

The wintering homerange of common eider and black scoter in southern New England.

The breeding and wintering locations of common eider and black scoter wintering in Rhode Island.

14 2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

Wild Turkey

Species Dates Bag Limit

Fall Archery 10/1/14 - 10/31/14 1 either sex bird

Spring Gobbler 4/29/15 - 5/24/15 1 bearded bird

Junior & Paraplegic 4/25/15 - 4/26/15 1 bearded bird

General Rules and RegulationsAreas open to hunting restricted to: Providence County; Kent Coun-ty; Washington County (except New Shoreham); Tiverton, and Little Compton in Newport County.

Limited to: shotguns, gauges 10, 12, 16, and 20 only, with shot sizes 4, 5, and 6 magnum loads only; and archery equipment consisting of a longbow (straight limb, reflex, recurve and compound bow) of not less than forty (40) pounds pull. Crossbow are not permitted for turkey hunting.

Arrows must be broadhead, with at least two cutting edges seven-eighths inches (7⁄8”) or greater at the widest point. A bow string release device where the bow is hand held, hand drawn and finger released is allowed.

Hunters must carry a turkey-calling device (non-electric) while hunt-ing. Calling is the only legal method for hunting wild turkey gobblers.

The use of decoys while hunting is allowed.Junior turkey hunting weekend open to all 12-14 year olds with a valid

hunting license and accompanied by an unarmed licensed adult, 21 or older.

Hunter SurveyA mandatory hunter survey card will be issued to each person pur-chasing a turkey permit. This survey information is vital to the turkey management program in Rhode Island and assists DEM biologists in maintaining a successful wild turkey season for our hunters. Please, we request your cooperation in returning the hunter survey card, whether or not you hunted or were successful.

Prohibited• The use of any other firearm, live decoy(s), dog(s), baiting, cooperative

drive(s).

• Electric calling devices, or any other devices, to capture or ensnare turkeys.

• The shooting of turkeys from the roost.

• Stalking or attempting to sneak up on a turkey to get a shot.

• The hunting, killing, taking, or attempting to take or possess, any wild turkey by any individual unless they possess a permit to do so. However, a person having a valid Rhode Island hunting license may call turkeys for individuals with a valid turkey permit.

TaggingA person killing a wild turkey must immediately sign, complete and attach to the leg in a conspicuous manner the turkey tag provided with the permit. The tag must remain attached to the turkey until processed.

Safe Turkey Hunting–Is No Accident!When compared to other sports activities (baseball, basketball and swimming--injuries per hundred thousand participants) hunting is a relatively safe activity. These comparisons should not cause any hunter to take accident free hunting for granted- each and every hunter must make safety the top priority of the hunt.

Very few hunting experiences compare with the exhilaration of turkey hunting. A chance to spend a day afield in the turkey woods, enjoying not only the hunt but also the splendor of the outdoors in spring makes this experience worthwhile to sportsmen. This is a privilege not to be taken for granted. Be sure that your turkey hunting experience is an enjoyable one by observing these key ingredients for a safe hunt.

Turkey Hunting Safety • NEVER crowd another hunter working a bird and avoid high-pres-

sure areas.

• “Mistaken for game” accounts for 87% of all turkey hunting acci-dents-- Be sure of your target and what’s beyond.

• Use proper setup techniques-- Sit against a wide tree to shield head, neck and back. A tree is an effective blind as it breaks your outline.

• Never wear the colors red-white or blue while turkey hunting. These colors mimic the colors of a gobbler’s head and can draw fire. Be totally camouflaged.

• Never stalk turkey sounds or turkeys- it’s unsafe and illegal. Never use the sounds of a turkey to warn approaching hunters.

• Avoid using gobbling calls– which draw more hunters than game

How to Tell the Sex & Age of a TurkeyDetermination of the sex and age of a wild turkey is vital to the hunter since only males are “legal birds” in the spring gobbler season. Proper identification of your target before shooting protects vulnerable hen turkeys from accidental shooting during the spring nesting season. Bi-ologists also gather important data about the composition of the turkey population from this information to assist management decisions.

Hunters are reminded they should use a variety of characteristics to identify a legal bird, including behavior (strutting, gobbling) and color (black body coloration, bright red, white and blue head color). Beards alone are not reliable indicators since up to as many as 30% of a popula-tion may have “bearded” hens.

General CharacteristicsMales: Body color black- iridescent, breast feathers black tipped; spurs greater than ½ inch (adults-gobblers) less than ½ inch (juveniles-jakes); head crown white with prominent red and blue face and head; weight 15 to 20 pounds.Females: Body color brown, drab -breast feathers brown tipped; no spurs; head color blue-gray no white crown; weight jennies (6-8 pounds), adults– hens (8-13 pounds).

Checking Requirements:Within 24 hours of harvesting a turkey, hunters are required to fill out and return a Pre-paid Kill Report Card to DEM to record the harvest. This card replaces mandatory check in stations and is vital to recording your harvest-ed bird for effective species management. Report cards are available from license vendors or from DEM.

Turkey hunting

Turkey Feather Identification

JuvenileAdult

No bars at tipBars at tipBlack-tipped Brown-tipped

FemaleMale

AgeSex

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 15

Article: snakes

Rhode Island has thirteen species of native snakes. Some local species, including the Allegheny Ratsnake and Eastern Black Racer, are large impressive animals. Other small snakes live beneath the ground and are not often seen. The Eastern Gartersnake is by far the most common Rhode Island snake, occurring in many places from densely urbanized areas to small marine islands. Few animals command as much respect or generate as much fear as snakes. The RIDFW receives many calls each year from citizens concerned about snakes. In nearly all situations, the culprit is the Eastern Milksnake. These animals are mostly observed during spring and fall, when they are basking in sunlit areas. During the summer they lay low or are active at night. Milksnakes prefer areas with rough cover such as stone walls and log piles and are often found near human residences. Milksnakes have a bold banded pattern and can be pugnacious when cornered. A defensive animal can assume an S-shaped striking position, rattle its tail, and hiss loudly. In fact, many of our local snakes have these impressive defensive displays that create the impres-sion that the snake is dangerous. However, at least in Rhode Island, such fear is unwarranted because there are no truly dangerous snakes in the state. Rhode Island’s only venomous reptile, the Timber Rattlesnake, has not been documented in the state since 1969. Copperheads occur in Connecticut and Massachusetts but their distribution has not extended into Rhode Island.

N A T I V E S N A K E S O F

Rhode IslandBy Christopher Raithel, Principal Wildlife Biologist, RIDFW

Native Snakes of RI Include:Eastern Worm Snake (Carphophis amoenus)Northern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor)Timber Rattle Snake (Crotalus horridus)Northern Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus)Eastern Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon platirhinos)Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon)Eastern Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)Eastern Rate Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis)Northern Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi)Northern Redbelly Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata)Eastern Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus)Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)

The Northern Black Racer is a shiny black snake that can reach 6 feet in length. They usually flee when approached but can bite if cornered.

People often mistake the Eastern Milk Snake for a venomous species because of its bold pattern and defensive behaviors.

The Northern Water Snake is another harmless species that is found near permanent water bodies. The bold pattern of a juvenile darkens and becomes indistinct as the snake ages.

16 2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

Deer Hunting Seasons

Season Dates

Archery (includes Crossbow)

September 15 - January 31 (Zones 1, 2) September 6 and 7 (Youth only Zones 1, 2)

Muzzleloader

November 8 - November 30 (Zones 1, 2) September 27 - October 2 (Zone 1 - Antlerless deer only) December 26 - January 2

(Zones 1, 2 - Antlerless deer only)

ShotgunDecember 6 - December 21 (Zones 1, 2)

December 26 - January 2 (Zones 1, 2 - Antlerless deer only)

Archery: Prudence-Patience Islands (Zone 3)

September 15 - January 31 October 7 - 10 (Paraplegic hunters only) October 11 and 12 (Youth only Season)

Archery: Block Island (Zone 4)

September 15 - February 28 (Check local ordinance)*

Shotgun & Muzzleloader: Block Island (Zone 4)

November 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25

December 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 16, 18, 19

January 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

February 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27

Bag/Season Limits

Statewide (all zones combined) 2 Antlered Deer; except Zone 3 (1 Antlered)

Zone 1 4 Antlerless Deer; 1 Replacement Tag

Zone 2 3 Antlerless Deer

Zone 3 2 Antlerless Deer

Zone 4 5 Antlerless Deer (Unlimited permits)

Deer HuntingAll Outdoors Permit Package Resident Hunters may purchase one (1) “All Outdoors Package Permit” (AO) for use in Deer Management Zones 1 and 2 to take up to 8 deer during the established seasons. All Outdoor Permits are available only from DEM Division of Licensing (222-6647).

The Season limit on Antlered Bucks is two (2) statewide and may be taken by AO permit holders in any combination during the appropriate open season. Hunters will be issued 2 All Outdoors Antlered Deer/Buck Permits.

Hunters will also be issued six (6) All Outdoors Antlerless permits that may be used in any combination statewide to take antlerless deer.

Written PermissionAnnual written landowner permission is required for deer hunting on pri-vate land (RIGL 20-15-1) during the deer season. It is not required that deer permits (tags) be signed by the landowner, provided the hunter has other written permission in possession. Deer permits (tags) must be carried while hunting. Annual written permission must be shown to any authorized person upon demand, and must be presented when checking a deer.

Prohibited Deer Hunting Activities• The use of electronic calls. The construction and use of permanent

tree stands. The use of nails, spikes, bolts, or climbing devices, which may damage trees on state property; and on private property without the permission of the landowner.

• Hunting, pursuing or molesting deer below mean high tidal water or while deer are swimming in any waters of the state.

• Feeding or baiting: the act of using, placing, giving, exposing, deposit-ing, distributing, or scattering any material, or any act to maintain the availability of such material that attracts deer to feed on such material.

Local Ordinances*Some towns restrict deer hunting or the discharge of firearms and, therefore, it is important to check town ordinances before hunting. Towns closed to Sunday hunting on private lands include Portsmouth, Little Compton, Middletown, Barrington, and Tiverton (excluding Sapowet, Simmons Mill Pond and Eight Rod Management Areas). Some towns require written permission of the landowner, and/or local police department. For local and Sunday hunting regulations, check with the town police department or town clerk. Landowner permission counter-signed by the Chief of Police is required for all private land deer hunting hunting on Block Island.

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)DEM Fish and Wildlife will conduct surveillance for CWD in RI during the Deer season. RIDEM surveillance for CWD has shown we do not have this in R.I. CWD is a rare neurological disease that affects deer and elk. It attacks the brain, producing small lesions that eventually result in death. Although domestic livestock and humans are not known to be susceptible to CWD, currently there is not enough information to prove that they are safe from the disease. Also, there is no connection between CWD and BSE (mad cow disease).

Precautions for limiting spread of CWD• Do not feed or bait deer. Feeding and baiting spreads disease and is

illegal.

• Contribute your deer’s head at hunter check stations (or after butcher-ing) for CWD testing

• If you hunt outside of Rhode Island, please read the following infor-mation about how to safely transport your deer.

ImportationAll carcasses and parts of any deer imported into Rhode Island must have a legible label bearing the following information: the species of animal, the State, Province or Country where the animal was taken or where the shipment originated, the name of the person who took the an-imal or the name of the shipper, the address of the taker or shipper and, for transport through the State, the destination of the shipment. Hunter harvested carcasses; parts or meat taken outside Rhode Island shall also bear the marking, tagging or labeling required by the State where the animal was taken.

Feeding and baiting Deer in Rhode IslandNo person shall feed deer at any time in Rhode Island except:

• Under a license or permit issued by the Department of Environmental Management for scientific research.

• By planting, cultivating, or harvesting of crops directly associated with agricultural practices, including planted wildlife food plots.

• By distribution of food materials for livestock directly associated with agricultural practices.

Deer hunting

17

• By distribution of food material for legally possessed captive Cervids, pursuant to a permit.

• By cutting of trees or brush.

• By elevated bird/squirrel feeders providing seed, grain, fruit, worms, or suet for birds or squirrels located within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling.

Deer Hunting MethodsShotgunLimited to 10, 12, 16, and 20 gauges, plugged to 5 shell maximum. Ammunition permitted for shotgun deer season is limited to a single lead or alloy projectile, including rifled slugs or sabot round. Buckshot is PROHIBITED for deer hunting. Muzzleloader may be used during shotgun season with a valid shotgun deer permit.

MuzzleloaderFirearms are limited to single or double barrel flintlock, caplock, inline ignition system muzzle-loading shotgun or rifle only. Muzzle-loading rifles are limited to .45 caliber or larger. Smoothbore firearms limited to .50 caliber or 20 gauge or larger. Ammunition is limited to single lead projectile of the same caliber as the firearm. Sabot rounds either lead or jacketed permitted on .43 caliber or larger. Powder limited to black powder or approved substitutes. A muzzleloader is considered unloaded when cap or pan powder is removed.

ArcheryArchers may use a long bow, re-curve bow, compound bow or crossbow for hunting deer. Long bow, re-curve bow and compound bow must meet be capable of not less than forty (40) pounds at peak draw weight

for archers using fixed blade broadheads, and a minimum of fifty (50) pounds for archers using a mechanical broadhead. Only broadhead tipped arrows with at least two (2) metal cutting edges are allowed. All broadheads must be 7⁄8 of an inch or greater at the widest point. Mechan-ical heads are measured in the “open” position and must be a minimum of 7⁄8 of an inch.

Crossbows meeting the following minimum criteria are permitted for hunting deer: minimum draw of 125 pounds. Expandable broadheads are permitted. One (1) field point arrow may be carried in the quiver for the safe discharge of the crossbow; the field point arrow must be made distinguishable from the crossbow arrow by a color difference. All hunt-ers must have taken and successfully completed bow hunter education classes or hold a prior year archery deer permit in order to hunt with a crossbow.

Adaptive AidsHunters during the archery season may hunt deer with adaptive aids at any time without a special permit.Only one firearm or bow may be possessed in the field per individual hunter while hunting deer. Check local ordinances, for there may be other restrictions in specific towns.

DecoysThe use of decoys to attract deer is allowed only on private land only during the early portion of the archery season (September 15 to 30); except they may also be used on private lands in towns where hunting with a firearm is prohibited, from September 15 to January 31. When transporting decoys while hunting, persons must wear 500 square inches of fluorescent orange visible from all sides.

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R.I. Deer Management Strategy:Deer management zones have been established for harvesting deer in accordance with specific management goals for RI. The need to reduce auto strikes and address nuisance deer complaints are important deer management issues in addition to DEM’s goal to preserve and maintain quality deer hunting for sportsmen.

With this strategy we hope to:• Provide a sustainable high quality deer management program that

maintains deer populations that are ecologically sound.

• Maintain quality hunting programs for the deer resource recognizing the strong hunter tradition of deer hunting in Rhode Island and the important role hunters play in population management.

Landowner Rights & LiabilityWritten landowner permission is required to hunt deer on private prop-erty. Hunters are urged to gain a landowners permission prior to hunting for all other hunting activities as well. To maintain good landowner - hunter relations, always treat the landowners private property with re-spect and by knowing and respecting the property boundaries. It is also unlawful to shoot upon the land of another without their permission. Hunting on private land is a privilege not to be taken lightly.

To encourage landowners to make their lands available for recreation-al purposes, the RI General Law (32-6-3) limits the liability of persons making private land available for recreational activities, including hunting and fishing.

Liability of Landowner: an owner of land who either directly or indi-rectly invites or permits without charge any person to use that property for recreational purposes does not thereby:

• Extend any assurance that the premises are safe for any purpose;

• Confer upon that person the legal status of an invitee or licensee to whom a duty of care is owed; nor

• Assume responsibility for or incur liability for any injury to any per-son or property caused by an act of omission of that person.

Limitations(a) Nothing in the law limits in any way any liability which, but for this chapter, otherwise exists:

(1) For the willful or malicious failure to guard or warn against a dan-gerous condition, use, structure, or activity after discovering the user’s peril; or

(2) For any injury suffered in any case where the owner of land charges the person or persons who enter or go on the land for the recreational use thereof, except that in the case of land leased to the state or a subdivi-sion thereof, any consideration received by the owner for that lease shall not be deemed a “charge” within the meaning of this section.

(b) When the coastal resources management council designates a right-of-way as part of its designation process as specified in § 46-23-6(5), or when the coastal resources management council stipulates public access as a condition of granting a permit, the landowner automatically will have “limited liability” as defined in this chapter, except as specifically recognized by or provided in this section.

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2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 19

Article: deer hunting

D E E R H U N T I N G O P P O R T U N I T I E S I N R H O D E I S L A N D —

Better Than Ever!By Brian C. Tefft, Principal Wildlife Biologist, RIDFW

If you’re a new deer hunter in Rhode Island then you’re about to experience some of the best hunting opportunities any hunter has ever had in the state but if you’re a seasoned veteran, then you already know the hunting has been pretty good and improving. Pursuit of the White-tailed deer in Rhode Island has become and is by far the most sought after and popular hunting activity with our citizens. The op-portunity to hunt for deer and experience the challenge and thrill of harvesting a big game animal in the smallest state of the Union is ex-hilarating. It’s no secret that hunting provides many values to the individual hunter and socie-ty, including the personal benefits of harvesting a healthy meat source, the rest, relaxation and rejuvenation of the experience provides, the economic contributions of hunting towards conservation, and the public and ecological benefits of helping to manage wildlife popula-tions. Each year in Rhode Island, nearly nine thousand deer hunters take to the forests with hope of harvesting a whitetail deer. In total, hunters in Rhode Island spent 419 thousand days hunting deer, small game, turkey and wa-terfowl on public and private lands in the state, an impressive number. What is also impressive is that these same hunters contributed over 18 million dollars to Rhode Island’s economy in 2011 in pursuit of hunting activities.

The 2013-2014 deer season harvest of 2,458 deer represented an 11% increase in harvest from the prior year’s hunting season. Four years ago, the deer management strategy in Rhode Island underwent evaluation and several

changes were made to improve the overall ability of RIDEM to manage deer populations. In addition to providing quality hunting programs for sportsmen, deer management also currently contends with over abundant deer impacting people and the landscape. The primary goals for the deer management strategy are to: (1) Provide a sustainable quality deer management program that maintains deer populations that are ecologically sound and (2) Maintain quality hunting programs for the deer resource recognizing the strong hunter tradition of deer hunting in Rhode Island and the important role that hunters play in popula-tion management.

The results are encouraging for improved deer management in Rhode Island. Four management zones contribute to the deer management program in State, two compris-ing the mainland and two island zones (Block Island and Prudence Island) where some of the highest deer densities exist. In the 2013-14 hunting season, RI hunters took 1,329 antler-less deer representing 54% of the total harvest and contributing to management goals that rely on a healthy harvest of antlerless deer in order to maintain ecological sustainability and con-trol the growth of the herd. Hunting remains the most effective method of deer population management and fulfills a traditional and sus-tainable use of natural resources by the hunter, who is largely responsible for wildlife conser-vation and deer management through the fees they pay to hunt. Even with this success, some portions of the state include deer herds that

2013-2014 Deer Hunting Season – R.I. Reported Deer Harvest Season Type 2013-2014 2012-2013 % Change Males Females % Total Harvest

Archery (Zone 1 & 2) 827 620 33% 382 445 33.1%

Muzzleloader (Zone 1 & 2) 965 1135 -15% 558 407 38.6%

Shotgun (Zone 1 & 2) 349 276 26% 150 199 13.9%

Block Island 313 198 58% 63 250 12.5%

Prudence Patience Island 48 37 30% 19 29 1.9%

Totals 2502 2266 10% 1172 1330 100%

exceed desired levels. Public awareness of these problems is increasing and the result is a need for innovative measures to manage deer herds via cooperative hunting programs and more than ever, hunters are helping.

One of the emerging issues with deer hunt-ing in the state is the increase in the harvest of deer with archery equipment, which includes the crossbow. Two years ago, crossbow was added as a legal method during the statewide archery season that runs September 15 to Janu-ary 31. Between 2012 and 2013, archery harvest in the state increased by 31%, largely due to the impact of the crossbow hunter. During the 2013-2014 season, the archery harvest repre-sented 32.5% of the total deer take, exceeding shotgun (14%) and just under the most pop-ular hunting method of muzzle-loading rifle (39%). The growing popularity of archery as an effective hunting and management tool is due to a variety of factors, but most important is the fact that many areas will not permit firearms discharge and have reduced safety zones (200’) that permit archery hunting. Whether you chose to hunt public or private land, or with bow or gun, the hunter in Rhode Island is faced with a myriad of hunting opportunities that will provide almost endless days of outdoor recreation.

Be safe and enjoy the hunt!

20 2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

Special deer seasons

Co-op HuntingPrudence and Patience IslandsThe only legal method of deer hunting on Prudence and Patience Islands is by Archery, including crossbows. Proficiency testing is re-quired for all archery deer hunters on Prudence and Patience Islands. Proficiency cards must be carried while hunting. All deer taken must be reported to DEM within 24 hours by Kill Report Card or reported to an Environmental Police Officer as prescribed. The antlered deer (buck) bag limit is (1) one.

For paraplegic and double amputee hunters at South End Management Area (October 7-10) Special deer hunting permits must be obtained through the DEM Division of Licensing (222-3576) for these special hunts.

Block Island (New Shoreham)Written permission from a landowner must be obtained before hunting on private land and presented to and countersigned by the Block Island Chief of Police. All deer must be tagged and reported within 24 hours of taking. Deer are to be reported to DEM by using the pre-paid Kill Report Post Card. Buckshot is prohibited for deer hunting.

Block Island State Land (Black Rock / Rodman Hollow)Deer hunting is allowed by special permit only, selected by lottery. Applications (available at www.dem.ri.gov) to hunt state lands must be postmarked by August 15, 2014.

Block Island and Ninigret National Wildlife RefugesOpen for limited white-tailed deer hunting by special permit only on specific units, selected by lottery. Block Island NWR: Firearm hunting opportunities are available. All Block Island hunting restrictions, DEM, and refuge regula-tions apply. Ninigret NWR: during December for a firearms deer season for youth hunters only and will be open for a December/January Archery only hunt, excluding crossbows. For information, regulations, permits and dates, please contact the refuge at 401-364-9124, or on line at http://www.fws.gov/refuge/ninigret

Northwest Cooperative Hunting Area (Glocester)Permit required and may be obtained by sending a self addressed stamped envelope (9½” x 4”) to: NORTHWEST COOPERATIVE HUNTING, Division of Fish and Wildlife, 277 Great Neck Rd, West Kingston, RI 02892. One permit will be issued for all methods of deer hunting. Permits with hunting activity records must be returned to the Division at the close of the season.

TNC Deer Hunting Co-Op: No Special Permits Required.Francis Carter Preserve Charlestown: Deer hunting only limited to archery equipment. No hunting of any other species of wildlife is permitted. Queens River Preserve Exeter: Deer hunting only limited to archery equipment. No special permit required. No hunting of any other species of wildlife is permitted. Cutty-hunk Brook Preserve Exeter and Grass Pond

Preserve Richmond: Deer hunting only with archery, muzzleloader and shotgun is permit-ted following Zone 2 regulations. No hunting of any other species of wildlife is permitted. Maps available at: www.dem.ri.gov/maps/wma.htm

Beavertail (Jamestown)Archery only (11/3/14 - /1/31/15) no weekends prior to 12/31. Proficiency is required and cards must be carried while hunting. Permits must be returned by February 15 regardless of activity or success, to be eligible for next year’s hunt. Permits are available at the Jamestown Police Department. Ten (10) hunters are allowed per day on a first-come firstserved basis. Limit of 5 slots per week reserved no more than 20 days in advance.

Grills Preserve I (Westerly) and Grills Preserve IIArchery and Muzzleloader only portions of the deer seasons in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by DEM. Permits available after September 1. Available by sending a self addressed envelope to Grills Preserve Co-Op, DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife, 277 Great Neck Road, West Kingston, RI 02892.

Providence Water Supply Cooperative (PWS)Special Permits are available by lottery for deer hunting only. Applications must be submitted by August 15 and are available from Great Swamp Headquarters or online at: www.dem.ri.gov/pro-grams/bnatres/fishwild/pdf/pwshunt.pdf. PWS Co-Op follows Zone 1 regulations.

Junior Archery Hunting WeekendsFor those Junior hunters (ages 12-14) in pos-session of a valid Rhode Island Junior Hunting License.Zone 1 and 2: September 6 and 7; Zone 3: October 11 and 12. Contact Fish and Wildlife for additional information.

Photo SubmissionsWant to share your story or photo of a successful hunt in next years magazine?

If so, we want to know everything, time of day, location, target species, weight, length and any other animal specify data you wish to provide. We would love to share your success with everyone! That is, if you want to give up your secrets!

Send your photo of deer, turkey, pheasant, etc. to ashley.schipritt@dem.ri.gov and if space allows it maybe used in next year’s edition.

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 21

Checking & tagging

Checking & TaggingTo make for a more convenient and efficient procedure for sportsmen to check and report their deer and turkey, Pre-Paid Kill Report cards must be filled out and dropped into any mailbox to report your harvested deer or turkey. Kill Report Cards are included in the hunting abstract or are available from DEM offices or hunting license vendors.

Deer must be tagged in the field, with a valid deer permit (tag) for the appropriate season, immediately upon taking. During the first four (4) days of the Muzzleloader deer season (November 8-11) all deer must be checked at a state operated check biological station.

At all other times deer must be reported to DEM by mailing a Pre-Paid Kill Report card within 24 hours of taking. Kill/Harvest report cards can be found in this abstract and are available at all Hunting License Vendors and DEM offices.

Checking Procedures for Deer & Turkey HuntersDeer and Turkey hunters are required to report their harvested animals within 24 hours of the kill, by using a simple Pre-paid postage Kill Report Card supplied by RIDEM. The harvest/ kill report cards will replace the need for hunt-ers to check deer and turkey at vendor check stations during most of the deer and turkey hunting seasons.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife still requires a portion of our harvested deer to be inspected and measured by State biologists and therefore, all hunters are required during the first 4-days of the muzzleloader deer season to check, weigh and measure their deer at an Official State Deer Checking Station. The information collected is vital to the RI deer management program as well as monitoring herd health and disease (CWD) surveillance. Every hunter is a vital and important contribu-tor to deer management in Rhode Island. Please report your harvested deer and encourage fellow hunters to do the same.

Biologists rely on the deer, turkey and related data provided by hunters to set season lengths and bag limits each year. Without reliable, accurate data, biologists cannot correctly deter-mine many factors related to the health of our deer and turkey, to know how many can be tak-en to provide a sustainable harvest of healthy animals. This directly affects the sportsmen in how many days you can hunt, how many deer you can take and the quality of the deer that you harvest during your hunting season.

So please, all hunters, take your deer and turkey checking responsibilities seriously! We appreciate your efforts in helping us to main-tain a quality deer and turkey hunting season for Rhode Island.

Deer Permit Number: Date of Kill:

Rhode Island Deer Season Kill Report Card Mail this card Within 24 Hours to report your harvest

Time of Kill: AM EST

PM EST

State_____ Private____

If State, enter WMA name

_____________________________

Town of Kill:___________________________

Sex (please circle one):

Doe Doe (young of year) Button buck Antlered buck Antlers dropped

Antler points Dressed weight

Left______ est.____

Right_____ actual_____

Method (circle one):

Archery___ Muzzleloader___ Shotgun___

Crossbow___

Hunter’s Signature:

____________________________

Hunter Name___________________________

(please print)

Address_____________________________

Town_______ State____ Zip____________

Phone number________________________

Replacement TagsFree replacement tags for deer are issued by the DEM Division of Licensing after a hunter harvests two (2) antlerless deer in Zone 1 and upon the hunter providing evidence (checked field tags) of having tagged the antlerless deer. The replacement tag may be used to take an additional Antlerless Deer.

To qualify for the replacement tag bring two field tags to DEM Licensing to document hav-ing harvested (2) antlerless deer in Zone 1.

State Operated Check StationsArcadia Management Area- Rt. 165, Ten Rod Road, at Wood River, Exeter, Phone: 539-7117.Carolina Management Area- Pine Hill Road, Richmond, Phone: 364-3483.Durfee Hill Management Area- Reynolds Road (Rte 94), Glocester, Phone: 568-6753Great Swamp Management Area- 277 Great Neck Rd. West Kingston, Phone: 789-1636Tiverton Rod and Gun Club- (Deer checking only) 1000 Fish Road, Tiverton, RI, Phone: 624-3959

Operating hours: Small Game Season: October 18-19, October 25-26, November 1-2, and November 8-9. Stations open ½ hour before sunrise and close at sunset. Muzzleloader Deer Season: All deer taken during the period November 8-11, 2014 must be physically checked at a State Operated biological check station, Hours: 8:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. Daily.Checking Requirement: Except for the first four days of the muzzleloader deer season, all deer must be reported within 24 hours of taking by mailing Pre-Paid Kill Report Card available from all hunting license vendors and DEM. This includes Prudence-Patience and Block Island hunters.

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Zone map

R.I. Deer Management UnitsZone 1: Barrington, Bristol, Charlestown, Cranston, Cumberland, East Greenwich, East Providence, Jamestown, Johnston, Lincoln, Middletown, Narra-gansett, North Kingstown, North Providence, North Smithfield, Pawtucket, Providence, Smithfield, South Kingstown, Warren, Warwick, West Warwick, Wester-ly, Woonsocket.

Zone 2: Burrillville, Coventry, Exeter, Foster, Gloces-ter, Hopkinton, Little Compton, Portsmouth, Rich-mond, Scituate, Tiverton, West Greenwich.

Zone 3: Prudence-Patience Islands

Zone 4: Block Island (New Shoreham)

22 2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 23

State LandsThere are over 48,000 acres of land designated as state management areas in Rhode Island. Maps of management areas are available from the Rho-de Island Division of Fish and Wildlife at the Great Swamp Field Office or online at: www.dem.ri.gov. Regulations are designed and enforced to allow all outdoor enthusiasts to safely enjoy these land holdings. Hunting and trapping is allowed during the open seasons. In order to effectively manage and safeguard these open areas for people, wildlife, and habitat, the following regulations are to followed:

• Except for fishing, hunting, launching, and/or mooring of boats, all management areas are closed ½ hour after sunset to 5:00 a.m., except by written permit. (RIGL 32-2-4)

• Camping is prohibited on all areas with the exception of portions designated at Arcadia and George Washington Management Areas. Contact the Division of Forest Environment for camping information (539-2356).

• The use of motorcycles is prohibited except in designated portions of Arcadia Management Area.

• The use of ATVs is prohibited statewide.

• The blocking of any gate, road, or access in State Management Areas is prohibited and subject to fines (RIGL 8-8.2-2).

• Horseback riding is prohibited in the Great Swamp Management Area during small game and shotgun deer season (RIGL 32-2-4).

• Groups consisting of 10 or more persons must obtain a group use permit available from the Division of Forest Environment, 539-2356.

• Galilee Bird Sanctuary is open for Archery deer hunting.

• Hunting (deer) is permitted in these Undeveloped State Parks: Cocumcussoc, Washington Grove, Burlingame (special permit required) and Snake Den (archery only) Ninigret Conservation Area / East Beach, (small game and archery deer hunting only).

Dogs on Management AreasNo dogs shall be trained, run, exercised or be permitted to run at large on state management areas from March 15-August 15, inclusive, without written permission of the Director or authorized representative, except in specified dog training areas (below). Walking of dogs on a leash of not more than twenty-five (25) feet in length shall be permitted on roads and trails only. All dogs must be wearing a collar with the name and address of the owner or handler and license tag.

Special Dog Training Areas:Dog training is allowed in designated areas located within Arcadia Man-agement Area (Midway Trail) in Exeter, Nicholas Farm Management Area (north of Trestle Trail) in Coventry, and Black Farm Management Area in Hopkinton from January 1 to September 30, from sunrise to sunset. The use of live birds is by special permit only. A hunting license is required when training dogs on wild game on state management areas, except when participating in state sanctioned field trials.

Bay Islands

Prudence & Patience IslandsWritten permission of the landowner, countersigned by the police chief, must be obtained to hunt private property on Prudence Island. South Prudence and Patience Management Areas are closed to small game hunting. The small game season on Prudence Island is Nov. 1 – 30, except on Northern Prudence Island, where the small game season is Jan 4– 31. Raccoon open season for Prudence Island is Jan. 3 – Feb. 28 with written permission of landowner. Raccoon may also be taken while bow hunting with a valid deer archery permit on Prudence Island, Oct. 18 - Jan. 30.

Waterfowl hunting is permitted no more than 10 feet above mean high water on Prudence Island, except in that period from Nov. 1 – 30, and during the period Oct. 7-10 by paraplegic and double amputee deer hunters with special permit (RIHR 2.2).

Other RestrictionsHope Island: No Trespassing Apr. 1 – Aug. 15, for nesting birds. All domestic animals prohibited except hunting dogs during small game and waterfowl season.

Big Gould: No Trespassing Apr. 1 – Aug. 15, for nesting birds.

East and West Island:No Trespassing Apr. 1 – Aug. 15, for nesting birds.

Dutch Island: Closed to hunting and all other access.

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“It is the policy of the Rhode Island Department of Environ-mental Management to offer its services and accommoda-tions to all orderly persons, and, as required, to all properly licensed persons, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, or disability.” If you believe that you have been discriminated against in any program, ac-tivity, facility, or if you desire further information, please write to the Office for Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D.C. 20240.

Article: trapping

Fur was an important commodity exchanged between Native Americans, colonists and Eu-ropeans for cash and other goods, and a driving force behind the colonization of the continent. Early trappers explored the interior of the conti-nent in search of furbearers, often being the first non-native people to witness and document the natural wonders of the continent.

Historically, people trapped mainly as a means of subsistence. In some parts of North America some people still do, but today most trap for the same reason that many people like to hunt, fish, or grow a garden. They enjoy the experience of being outdoors, interacting with

their natural surroundings and possibly shar-ing that experience with others. Market prices and demand effect fur prices and consequently the economic incentive to trap. Additional-ly, the business of assisting property owners with problems caused to wildlife is a growing industry.

Modern trapping does not lead to the extinction of fur-bearing mammals. In fact, some species of furbearers are more common today than they have been in a long time. Coyotes, beaver, raccoons, opossum, and fisher are all more common in Rhode Island and elsewhere in New England than they have been in over two hundred years. The challenge for wildlife managers today is to balance the viability of wildlife populations with the needs and concerns of the general public. Regulated trapping, along with habitat protection and public education, is an important component in this process.

Fur that is harvested by trappers is generally sold to local, independent fur-buyers or more recently, directly to large fur auction houses. In most states, local fur auctions are hosted by trapper organizations and held during and/or after the trapping season. In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Trappers Association hosts one or more fur auctions per season. Local trappers bring their various furs (pelts), and regional, independent fur-buyers bid on the furs. Proper

fur handling is important. The price that a trapper receives for his or her pelts will be directly affected by how well they are prepared. Properly prepared pelts will always receive a better price than those that are improperly prepared.

Wildlife agencies strictly regulate and monitor harvests of furbearers and timing and methods of harvest. Wildlife biologists are responsible for ensuring the long-term viability of furbearer populations. Trapping seasons are set to coincide with the time of year when fur-bearer populations are at the highest level and young animals are not dependent on adults for survival. Harvest levels are monitored through mandatory harvest reports and pelt tagging for certain species. Collection of harvest data and trapper-caught carcasses provides biologists with valuable insight into furbearer population dynamics.

You must possess a current trapping license to trap furbearers in Rhode Island. Trapping li-censes may be purchased from the Department of Environmental Management’s Division of Boat Registration and Licensing at 235 Prom-enade Street in Providence. In addition to a current trapping license additional permits are required to trap on state-owned management areas and to trap beaver and fisher. Permits to trap state land, fisher and beaver are issued by the Division of Fish and Wildlife at the Great Swamp Field Headquarters at 277 Great Neck Road, West Kingston (401-789-0281). Fisher and beaver pelts must be tagged by the Division of Fish and Wildlife prior to sale or export. All persons purchasing a trapping license are issued a fur harvest report form and are required to submit the card at the close of the trapping season whether or not they trapped or harvested anything. Failure to return the card will result in a loss of trapping privileges for the following season. Trapping on private land re-quires written permission from the landowner.

In 1996, The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA), in cooperation with state fish and wildlife agencies, trappers, veterinari-ans and others began an ambitious program to develop best management practices (BMPs) for trapping furbearers in the United States. The first BMP document “Best Management Prac-tices for Trapping Coyotes in the Eastern United States” was released in 2003. Today, 30 BMP documents have been produced. BMP’s are part of an international commitment to promote the humane use of traps and trapping methods for capturing wildlife. Extensive research effort has and continues to be conducted to improve the welfare of captured animals and improve selectivity, efficiency, practicality, and safety. BMP’s are recommendations that state and other wildlife agencies can incorporate into trapper education and furbearer management programs. For more information and copies of all Best Management Practices documents visit the AFWA website at: www.fishwildlife.org/?section=best_management_practices

There is a long history of trapping in Rhode Island as well as all of North America. It is part of our culture. Fur, meat, and other products derived from mammals were an important resource to the native peoples of the continent and became important resources for European settlers.

R H O D E I S L A N D ’ S

Fur TrappingBy Charlie Brown, Principal Wildlife Biologist, RIDFW

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide24

2014-2015 Rhode Island Hunting & Trapping Guide 25

TrappingTrapping

Species Dates Bag Limit

Pelt Tagging

Mink, Muskrat, Skunk, Raccoon, Opossum, Weasel, Red Fox, Gray Fox, Rabbit

11/1/14 - 1/31/15 none no

Coyote- Private no closed seasonnone no

Coyote- State Land 11/1/14 - 1/31/15

Beaver- Private* 11/1/14 - 3/14/1520 total yes

Beaver- State Land* 12/1/14 - 2/28/15

Fisher* 12/1/14 - 12/24/14 4 season yes

* Special permit required in addition to RI trapping license, which may be obtained at Fish and Wildlife’s Great Swamp Field Headquarters (401) 789-0281

General Regulations• No person shall set, maintain or tend any trap without first obtaining

a trapping license from the Department of Environmental Manage-ment. A resident of this state may set traps on property which they own and on which they are domiciled without obtaining a trapping license. (RIGL 20-16-7)

• Every holder of a trapping license will be provided with a trapping harvest report card that must be returned to the Division of Fish and Wildlife within 30 days of the end of the trapping season. Failure to return the card will result in denial of trapping license renewal. (RIGL 20-16-12)

• Traps may not be set, staked, or placed prior to 8:00 AM opening day.

• All traps must have at a minimum the trapper’s current RI trapping license number attached by a metal tag or embedded or cut into the trap. (RIGL 20-6-7)

• Written landowner permission is required to trap on private land. (RIGL 20-16-9)

• All traps must be checked at least once in every 24-hour period. (RIGL 20-6-9)

• There is no open season on bobcat (Lynx rufus) or river otter (Lontra canadensis).

Types of Traps PermittedFurbearers for which there is an open season may taken in: box (a.k.a. “cage”) traps, body-grip (a.k.a. “conibear”) traps, or species specific traps, with the following restrictions:

Body-grip trapsPrivate land: Body-grip (a.k.a. smooth wire or “conibear”) type traps up to 6 ½” jaw spread (i.e. “110, 120, 160” or equivalent) are permitted on land or in water on private land. Body-grip type traps greater than 6 ½” but not exceeding 8” jaw spread (“220”) may only be set if completely submerged in water or set no less than six (6) feet above the surface of the ground. Body-grip traps greater than 8” but not exceeding 10” jaw spread (“330”) may only be set completely submerged in water.

State land: Body-grip traps up to 6 ½” jaw spread are only permitted in wa-ter sets (i.e. all or a portion of the trap in water) or if placed six (6) feet above the ground. Body-grip traps with a jaw spread greater than 6 ½” but not exceeding 10” (“220-330”) may only be set if completely submerged in water.

Box trapsThe use of box traps is permitted on private and state lands.

Species specific trapsThe use of species specific traps is permitted on private and state land. A species specific trap is characterized by all of the following: triggering and restraining mechanisms are enclosed within a housing; trigger-ing and restraining mechanisms are only accessible through a single opening when set; access opening does not exceed 2 inches in diameter; triggering mechanism can only be activated by a pulling force; has a swivel mounted anchoring system.

Permit to trap state landsAll trappers harvesting furbearers from state management areas must obtain a special permit (no fee), issued by the Division of Fish and Wildlife, Great Swamp Field Headquarters in addition to their current RI trapping license.

Prohibitions• The use of poisons or snares (RIGL 20-16-6).• The use of steel-jawed leghold traps (RIGL 20-16-8).• No person shall disturb, tend, or possess a trap of another, or take an

animal from the traps of another unless specifically authorized to do so. (RIGL 20-16-12).

• The setting of traps within ten feet of a beaver lodge or bank den or within eight feet of a muskrat lodge unless authorized by special permit.

• The taking or possession of a road-killed furbearer (RIGL 20-16-1), unless with a current RI trapping license and during the open season for that species or as provided for under a current RI Scientific Collec-tors Permit (RIGL 20-1-18) or otherwise permitted by the Division.

• The relocation of beaver.

Coyote Hunting on State LandsThe hunting season for coyotes on state lands shall be from the beginning of dove hunting season in September to the last day in February inclusive and during the open spring turkey hunting season. The hunting season for coyotes on Prudence Island shall be: on state land during archery season with a valid archery permit, during the upland game season on private land, November 1 – November 30 and on North Prudence Manage-ment Area during upland season, January 1 – January 31.

During the spring turkey season, coyote hunters must possess a valid turkey hunting permit while hunting on state lands.

Coyote hunters on state lands must wear a minimum of 200 square inches of fluorescent orange during the small game hunting season. During the shotgun deer season, 500 square inches is required.

The placement or use of bait or carcasses or meat parts thereof is allowed on private property for the purposes of hunting coy-otes. The placement or use of carcasses or meat parts thereof is prohibited for purposes of hunting coyotes on state lands.

Shooting hours are ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset.

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