No Universal Lottery for Female Moose
The Ministry of Environment has announced significant changes in hunting regulations in Quebec. Notably, there will be no universal lottery system for female moose hunting permits. This decision has been made to address the concerns of hunters while managing wildlife populations effectively.
No Universal Lottery for Female Moose
Bernard Drainville, Quebec’s Minister of Environment, confirmed that some zones will have a lottery system for female moose hunting. These areas have been identified as having fragile moose populations, requiring careful management. The remaining regions will continue to use the alternating system that many hunters prefer.
Designated Lottery Zones
- Chaudière-Appalaches: Zone 3
- Estrie Montérégie: Zone 4
- Estrie: Zone 5
- Estrie and Centre-du-Québec: Zone 6
- Mauricie and Centre du Québec: Zone 7
- Montreal, Montérégie, and Basses-Laurentides: Zone 8
- Mauricie: Zone 26
- Capitale-Nationale: Zone 27
In these selected zones, the lottery will replace the established alternating system for hunting female moose and calves. The ministry retains the option to implement lotteries in additional areas if population issues arise.
Changes to Moose Hunting Regulations
Other significant amendments have been introduced regarding moose hunting. Notably, permits can now be shared among members of a hunting party targeting female moose or calves. However, the regulations for male moose hunting will remain unchanged.
Additional Species Adjustments
Beyond moose, the ministry has revised hunting regulations for several species, including white-tailed deer, small game, and wild turkey. For white-tailed deer, a second deer may be harvested in regions with healthy populations, provided only one male is taken.
Updates on Small Game and Wild Turkey
For small game, regulations will harmonize hunting periods for species such as the American hare and Canada grouse. Hunting seasons for these species will now open on the Saturday closest to September 18 in various zones including:
- Estrie: Zone 5
- Mauricie: Zone 26
- Montérégie: Zone 8
- Lanaudière: Zones 9 and 15
- Laurentides: Zones 9, 11, and 15
- Nord-du-Québec: Zones 22 and 24
These adjustments will not affect the overall hunting season duration, which will still conclude on January 15, allowing a total of 16 weeks for hunters.
Regarding wild turkey hunting, the previous requirement for a course to obtain a hunting permit has been lifted. The minister plans to await further consultations before finalizing the official regulations for this expanding hunting opportunity.
Minister’s Rationale
Minister Drainville emphasized the need for responsible decision-making. “We aim to protect wildlife while ensuring access to hunting. Our strategy is based on the health of game populations to maintain sustainable resources. We want tailored solutions for each region rather than a one-size-fits-all approach,” he stated. This strategy is intended to preserve the heritage of hunting, an integral part of Quebec’s identity.
