Winter Animals Seen from a Distance

 By Doug Leier

January 14, 2023 6:12 AM

                                    Outdoor recreationists are urged by wildlife managers to take into account where they go during North Dakota's most difficult times in order to spare already stressed animals who are only attempting to endure the weather.

This advice is sound regardless of the season on the Northern Plains, but it is especially pertinent this year because winter began in earnest in mid-November with little indication of when it would finish.

Managers of the state game and fish department are aware that North Dakotans like being outside during the winter. However, it is crucial that anybody using a snowmobile, going shed hunting, cross-country skiing, or engaging in any other activity be aware of where wildlife is and keep a safe distance from it.

To avoid forcing deer into thermal shelter where they are attempting to preserve energy, this means delaying shed hunting until later in the spring. Animals that are driven into the open are more vulnerable to the weather, which increases stress. Additionally, individuals need to be aware that it is prohibited in North Dakota to disturb animals while operating snowmobiles or other vehicles.

The Game and Fish Department's wildlife management areas, where many animals congregate to survive the winter, are likewise subject to the same cautions for shed hunters, skiers, and others.