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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 prevent injuries and prepare for a safe, successful archery hunt this fall

The general-season buck deer archery hunt and the general spike and any-bull elk archery hunts are the first big game hunts of Utah's fall season, and they all begin Saturday, Aug. 20. If you will be archery hunting this fall, there are several ways you can prepare for the hunt and stay safe while out in the field.

How to take a hunter education class or enroll in the Trial Hunting Program in Utah

If you are interested in trying hunting for the first time this fall or winter or if you'd like to learn how to use a trap, you'll need to look into either taking a hunter education class or participating in the Trial Hunting Program. If you've never taken hunter education or a furharvester course, rest assured that it isn't too late; but don't put it off because classes fill up quickly!

2 great places to celebrate National Shooting Sports Month in August

August is National Shooting Sports Month, making it a great time to hit the shooting range. (Established ranges are also a safer option for wildfire prevention, especially if you're planning to target shoot with firearms during the current hot, dry conditions.) Whether you are a beginner who wants to shoot a bow or rifle for the first time or you're a seasoned hunter prepping for the fall hunts, the two Utah Division of Wildlife Resources shooting ranges offer something for everyone.

Visit the Uinta Mountains for a unique hummingbird banding event

As hummingbirds are migrating through Utah this summer, you've most likely witnessed a few eating at a feeder or visiting some other nectaring spot for a midday meal. If you want to see these incredible birds up close, you should consider attending an upcoming Utah Division of Wildlife Resources event in northeastern Utah.

DWR proposes increases in license and permit fees due to rising costs

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is proposing a fee increase for hunting and fishing licenses and permits — for both residents and non-residents — in an effort to keep up with rising costs. The last substantive fee increase for resident licenses was in 2014, and the last fee increase for non-resident licenses was in 2020. The DWR is also proposing some other minor rule changes and is asking for the public's feedback on all the recommendations.

What to do if you find a bat in your house

Most Utahns probably associate bats with fall and the Halloween season, but you shouldn't be surprised if you find one in your home during the summer months. Utahns may see more bats this time of year because the baby bats (called pups) are learning to fly and leaving their roosts for the first time. Here's what you should know about bats in Utah and what to do if you encounter them.

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