The general deer and elk hunting season in northwestern Montana officially starts today, signaling the excitement and rush of local hunters eager to take part in the annual tradition. Dillon Tabish from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks emphasizes the importance of safety, urging hunters to adhere to regulations, wear hunter’s orange, and be prepared with proper licenses as they head into the field.
Although testing for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in harvested animals is not mandated, it is advised to ensure the health of the game. CWD is a progressive, fatal neurological disease affecting deer, elk, and moose, which could remain asymptomatic for long periods. Hunters are required by law to stop at check stations, providing vital data on the age structure of the harvest that helps wildlife management efforts.
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