Small game hunting is a popular pastime in Michigan, whether it is for food or sport. While many game animals have limited seasons in the state, hunters can take to the woods year-round and legally hunt these seven small game animals:
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1. Opossum
Opossum may be hunted year-round in Michigan and are often considered nuisance animals. Night hunting is permitted from mid-September to the end of March each year, but only with dogs. If night hunting the hunter must keep his/her firearm unloaded at the time of the hunt.
2. Woodchuck/Groundhogs
Woodchuck is another small game species that can be hunted year-round. The only exception to the rule is that all state parks and recreation areas are closed to hunting from April 1 until mid-September, due to tourism season.
3. Feral Swine
Feral swine are considered an invasive species in Michigan and
can be killed on site at any time during the year with a valid Michigan hunting license. Individuals hunting swine on private property are not required to have a state hunting license.
4. Feral Pigeons (Rock Doves)
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Feral pigeons can be hunted throughout the year in Michigan, although not defined as an actual “game animal” by the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources. Feral pigeons can carry communicable diseases to humans and their numbers rise each year in the state. A valid Michigan hunting license is required to hunt the bird.
5. Skunk
Skunk may be taken year-round, except in state parks and recreation areas from April 1 to mid-September. Trappers should keep in mind it is illegal to bring a live skunk in to the state of Michigan for any purpose.
6. Red Squirrel
According to the Outdoor Hub, if you are into hunting small game, Michigan has an abundance of red squirrel. The state’s abundance of forestland, both public and private, provides an ideal habitat for red squirrel. Although red squirrel are the smallest in size of the squirrel family, if you have enough of them you can make a hearty meal.
7. Porcupine
Although porcupine isn’t often thought of as a game animal, hunters are permitted to take the quilled creature year-round with no bag limits. A valid state hunting license is required to hunt porcupine.
This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.
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