Laws on urban deer hunting in Alabama vary from city to city, but guns are not permitted within city limits. So hunters who would like to help control the population of urban deer in this Southern state need to keep in mind that bow hunting is the only way to remove these animals from city limits.
Always be sure to check each city’s laws before deciding to stalk urban deer, and, of course, get permission from the landowner if the deer is on your neighbor or someone else’s property.
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“As human populations continue to increase and encroach into neighboring woodlands, wildlife – including deer – are suddenly becoming urban animals," said Chas Moore, a biologist
for the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. "Deer are amazingly adaptable creatures and have learned to live alongside human development.”
Here are five things to keep in mind about hunting urban deer in Alabama:
1. Firearms Hunting
It’s worth emphasizing that firearms are banned within most city limits in general, including Alabama. Check your local ordinances to find out what is permissible and what is not; while most areas have banned firearms for city hunting, many allow bow hunting.
2. Sharpshooters
Deer control organizations do exist and are often contracted to help control the population of deer in urban areas in Alabama and other states as well. One such organization
is Pro Deer Control, and these private organizations can provide professional removal of deer while complying with all city and state laws.
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3. BHA Urban Deer Control Program
To help control urban deer populations, The North American Bowhunting Coalition was formed, and
the Bowhunters of Alabama support the coalition. Bowhunters of Alabama invite hunters to become part of BHA and support the mission to create controlled, limit-access groups throughout the state. Each city has its own rules and qualifications, so be sure to check your local regulations.
4. Tips
Craig Sanford compiled a list of tips and tricks to help hunters of urban and suburban deer bag their bucks efficiently and effectively,
published in Alabama Outdoor News. One tip is to locate the funnels between the deer bedding and feeding areas. Experts also urge that being mindful of wind direction is crucial when dealing with a small piece of tract. Climbing high is another way to aid in successful urban deer hunting expeditions.
Lastly, assessing what the area is and is not providing for the deer can be an effective tool in your hunting arsenal. As Moore said, “The most basic and obvious needs are food and cover. Small food plots can work wonders to attract and hold deer on little properties. They can also help keep deer out of neighboring flowerbeds.”
5. Being a Good Neighbor
This rule goes without saying, whether in urban or rural areas of Alabama, but becomes even more vital regarding urban hunting. Remember, many of the people living within the city limits might not be comfortable with hunting, so it’s important to be respectful and discreet when hunting near populated areas, Sanford said.
Your choice of weapon matters more in urban areas and must comply with local laws. But also, try to keep the kill out of sight of the residents, which might mean having to wait until nightfall to retrieve your trophy.
This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.
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