News release

General Deer-Hunting Season Opens Today

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

The general deer hunting season begins today, Oct. 25, with general licence holders allowed to harvest one deer.

The season ends Saturday, Dec. 7, except for hunters who have an archery and muzzleloader stamp. They can hunt until Saturday, Dec. 14. No hunting is allowed on Sundays.

"Hunting is an important part of Nova Scotian life, especially in rural areas," said Natural Resources Minister Zach Churchill. "Our conservation officers and responsible hunters across the province work together to ensure a sustainable harvest."

One deer of either gender can be taken in zones 107 (mainly Colchester and Hants counties), 105 (Fundy shore between Blomidon and the Town of Digby) and 102 (South Shore, parts of Lunenburg and Queens counties). A limited number of antlerless deer may be taken in the remaining mainland zones by hunters with a valid stamp. A detailed map of the deer hunt management zones is available on the department website.

In 2012, hunters harvested 9,036 deer in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotian hunters must have a Wildlife Resources Client Card, a valid hunting licence with a Wildlife Habitat Stamp, and any federal permits needed.

Hunters from outside Nova Scotia must meet similar requirements.

Hunters must report on their hunting activities and estimate the deer population in their area, whether they harvest a deer or not. These reports can be submitted online or in person at registration stations.

Regardless of whether people are hunting or just enjoying being in the wilderness, safety is important. Wearing hunter-orange clothing and carry a compass and waterproof matches, are required for hunters and recommended for anyone entering the woods during hunting season. People should also carry a map or GPS unit, first-aid kit, a communications device and tell someone when and where they will be in the woods.

For more information about deer hunting in Nova Scotia, visit http://novascotia.ca/natr/hunt .