MONTANA STATE FISH AND GAME COMMISSION 13 



DEER ! 



The deer population in several sections of the state is showing a most 

 definite increase — in other sections sportsmen report a shortage. The Fish 

 and Game Commission in 1935 declared a buck law over the entire state with 

 the exception of the western portion of Ravalli county and a small area just 

 west of Glacier park in Flathead county. A state-wide "buck law" was de- 

 clared in 1936. 



While some big game hunters question the value of this regulation, it is 

 generally agreed by sportsmen in areas where the buck law has been in effect 

 for a few years that it is without question, beneficial. An outstanding ex- 

 ample of the value of the "buck law" is to be found in the Belt mountains 

 where no does have been killed for years; the fawn crop now is above normal 

 and the kill of bucks showing a steady increase each year. 



It is admitted that no reason can be given at this time for the apparent 

 shortage of deer in some sections. There are many factors which may be 

 responsible and it is planned to study the situation to determine definitely 

 whether there is a shortage and if so, the cause. 



There is no question but what the severe winter of 1935-36 was respon- 

 sible for a heavier-than-normal loss. Predators, at such times are most active, 

 with deer being the food most easily available. It is too easy to accept some 

 theory as to what is responsible for apparent fluctuations in game populations 

 and in most cases, with time and revenue permitting an extensive study of 

 conditions, it will be found that such theories or accepted ideas have no foun- 

 dation, and that the cause, if any, is due to some other reason far removed 

 from the one advanced and accepted previously. By this, it is not intended 

 to question and doubt reports and ideas advanced by individuals but it is 

 intended to point out that a study of all related factors should be made be- 

 fore stating definitely the suspected cause. It is only through following such 

 a plan that proper steps may be taken to correct the condition. 



Through the winter game studies being made under the supervision of the 

 Forest Service much valuable data will be gathered relative to winter ranges, 

 migrations, diseases, predators and other factors most closely associated with 

 the welfare of our big game animals. It is regretted that funds will not per- 

 mit a more active participation by the Fish and Game Commission in this work 

 but it is hoped that funds will be available during the 1937-38 season to make 

 this possible. 



Antelope 



This highly-prized game animal is showing a most marked increase in Mon- 

 tana with every indication now pointing to the possibility of an open season in 

 one or more of the areas each year under regulated hunting. In 1935, follow- 

 ing a close study by deputy game wardens in southeastern Montana, the Fish 

 and Game Commission declared an open season under the "limited permit" 

 system in Carter and Powder River counties. Two hundred permits were al- 

 lotted at a "drawing" held at Broadus with 125 antelope taken during the 30 

 day season. This system prevents any heavy slaughter and was met with much 

 favor by those participating. A similar plan was followed in Chouteau county 

 in 1936 with 400 permits allotted. 



The Fish and Game Commission has approved a plan to trap and trans- 

 plant antelope next spring. 



