Hunting in Oklahoma: Animals Designated Nongame, Endangered, Threatened, and Protected Species

Oklahoma is a state known for its hunting, with more than two dozen open seasons and a wide array of game animals. There are also a number species considered endangered, threatened and protected, thereby making them off limits for hunting. Hunters should be aware of these species before embarking on a hunt.

ALERT: Should Obama Have More Control Over Guns? Vote Now

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation website lists 21 species federally listed as protected and three species listed by the state as endangered or threatened. The federally protected species include the lesser prairie chicken. The three state-listed species are all water animals: the longnose darter, the blackside darter, and the Oklahoma cave crayfish.

Longnose Darter

The darter is a tiny fish with an elongated snout that exists in very few areas such as the Poteau River and Lee Creek in eastern Oklahoma. It grows to about two-and-a-half inches long and prefers clear upland stream habitats.

Blackside Darter

This particular darter is also a small type of fish which was added to the endangered species list in 1992, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society.

VOTE NOW: Is Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin Doing a Good Job?

Oklahoma Cave Crayfish

A small, freshwater creature, the Oklahoma cave crayfish was put on the endangered list primarily because it only exists in two types of caves, according to the Encyclopedia of Life.

Lesser Prairie Chicken

This species of grouse exists in western Oklahoma. It was listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act in 2014, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Habitat loss, fragmentation and drought have contributed to the rapid decline of the lesser prairie chick, which is known for its spring mating displays.

Provided hunters are aware of the regulations and restrictions on species in Oklahoma, there is no reason why hunting can’t be enjoyed throughout the wide-open state.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

URGENT: Do You Support Obama's Plans for Stricter Gun Control? Vote Now

Related Stories:

• Revered Sage Grouse Bird Sets Off Debate in Congress
• Hunting in Alaska: 5 Animals Designated Nongame, Endangered, Threatened, and Protected Species