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Updates on Utah's wildlife from the DWR

Each week the DWR publishes interesting and informative stories about Utah's wildlife. If you want these stories delivered to your inbox just as soon as we publish them, please sign up for our weekly email.

Tips to help you stay safe and avoid conflict with rattlesnakes

With the warmer weather, rattlesnakes will begin emerging from their winter dens, and you may encounter one while hiking or spending time outdoors. Rattlesnake encounters may happen on occasion, but they don't need to deter you from getting outdoors. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and aware while recreating outside this spring and summer.

DWR releases recommendations for 2023 big game hunting permits

For the fifth consecutive year, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is recommending a decrease in the number of general-season deer hunting permits. The DWR is asking for the public's feedback on the recommended number of big game hunting permits for the 2023 seasons, as well as on a variety of other proposals.

DWR closes 24 wildlife management areas to help protect wintering deer in northern, central Utah

While many wildlife management areas in northern Utah are currently scheduled to reopen to public access on April 8, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is extending their closure through April 30 — and also closing additional WMAs in central Utah through the end of April — in an effort to help protect wintering deer and other big game in these areas.

See migrating loons at upcoming DWR viewing event

An almost mythical bird — built for diving and sporting a haunting voice — stops in northeastern Utah during its spring migration, and April is a great time to see them.

Brine shrimp officially named Utah's state crustacean

The brine shrimp has officially joined the ranks of Utah state symbols after Gov. Spencer Cox signed H.B. 137 on March 17, 2023, formally designating the brine shrimp as the state crustacean.

Want the chance to hunt big game in Utah this fall? The application period opens March 23

While the application period for Utah's big game hunts opened in January in previous years, the application period has shifted to March and April this year — and going forward — so hunters can see the proposed permit numbers prior to applying. If you're interested in getting your own locally harvested deer or elk meat this fall, be sure to take note of the important dates in the upcoming application period.

Quick links
Lee Kay and Cache Valley Shooting Centers
» Shooting centers
Wildlife Blog: Views from DWR employees
» Wildlife Blog
Report poachers — 1-800-662-3337
» Report poachers
Wildlife dates
» Important dates
Hunter, angler mobile app
Hunter Education: Sign up for classes
» Hunter education