Are Birds Illegally Being Shot in the Gem State?

Spring is here, and many are excited to get out and enjoy the weather. While it may not seem like it, you can get out and hunt without freezing your body parts off. There are only certain animals you can hunt at different times of the year, but that doesn't stop people from hunting illegally each year in the Gem State. While some animals have hunting seasons, there are other animals that you cannot hunt at all, no matter what time of the year it is. Birds are a common animal that people hunt in Idaho, and sadly, some people will take care of them for fun, especially when growing up. There are certain birds that you can't kill in Idaho, yet recently some of these have been turning up shot in the Gem State, which is illegal.

Can You Shoot Owls in Idaho?

There are certain birds that most know you cannot shoot. Nobody should be taking a shot at a hawk, an eagle, or any raptor. There are common birds that most will not care about, such as turtle doves, robins, and sparrows that can be shot at, but should never be done in town or residential areas. Then there are birds that many are unsure what they can and cannot shoot. Owls are known the be a menace to farmers and owners of small dogs, cats, bunnies, and other animals, as owls can pick them up and eat them. Because of this, many assume an easy solution would be to take care of the owl, but can you legally do so in Idaho? Owls are protected by law, and shooting and killing an owl is illegal in Idaho. Doing so can affect their population, but happens more often than people know. 

Shooting Owls in Idaho

Recently in Buhl, two owls were found on the side of the road, both with holes through them. There was a turtle dove next to them as well, but someone was firing shots at these birds, in city limits. This breaks multiple laws and raises the question of what can be done to stop this. While many know the law, it is tough to stop poachers and the illegal shooting of owls and other birds in the Gem State. These animals lay there for weeks before finally being picked up. Was it a child playing with a gun? Was it someone that wanted to take out the owls? Either way, these protected creatures are being harmed and something needs to be done. 

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For more on what birds you and can't hunt, make sure to click the link in the second paragraph above, and if you see anyone taking shots at a protected bird, make sure to report them immediately.