DNR asks for hunters to record their wildlife observations

MADISON -- With the start of deer hunting in Wisconsin for 2015 when the archery season opens Sept. 12, state wildlife officials are kicking off the seventh annual Deer Hunter Wildlife Survey, an easy-to-do survey where hunters can record their observations of deer and other wildlife while out hunting. Survey results help track population trends for Wisconsin's deer herd and other wildlife.

"The Deer Hunter Wildlife Survey is a fun opportunity for hunters to share their enthusiasm for wildlife while helping survey efforts," says Jes Rees Lohr, wildlife research scientist with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

The DNR asks hunters to record all of their hunting activity throughout the deer season, even if no wildlife sightings were made during a hunt. The observations provide the DNR with an index to abundance for many wildlife species. In 2014, there were more than 15,000 trips logged totaling more than 66,000 hours of observations. In addition, hunters reported a total of 5,634 bucks, 13,419 does and 8,253 fawns. Since starting in 2009, the Deer Hunter Wildlife Survey has reported more than 80,000 hunting trips from hunters all around the state.

At the end of each year, participants will receive a personalized summary of all recorded wildlife from that season. Participants can access the survey webpage by going to the DNR website, dnr.wi.gov, and search keywords "Deer Hunter Wildlife." Tally sheets can be filled out either electronically or printed from the site. The survey period ends January 2016

Lastly, don't forget to keep sending in your trail camera photos. The trail camera gallery can be accessed through the Deer Hunter Wildlife Survey webpage. Check back often as the site is updated as soon as new photos are sent in.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Jessica Rees Lohr, wildlife research scientist, 608-221-6349.