High Desert Small Game Adventures
New Mexico offers a unique squirrel hunting experience across its rugged mountains, piñon-juniper woodlands, and scrub-covered slopes. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish manages squirrel hunting to ensure sustainable populations and regulated harvests. With populations of Abert’s squirrels, gray squirrels, and fox squirrels scattered across varied terrain, the state provides a distinctive blend of big country and classic small game action. To legally hunt squirrels in New Mexico, individuals are required to obtain a game-hunting license.
Abert’s, Gray, and Fox Squirrel Habitat
Abert’s squirrels thrive in ponderosa pine forests, especially in the north-central and western mountain ranges. Gray squirrels are found in riparian corridors and mixed hardwood stands in southern and eastern regions. Fox squirrels are more adaptable, inhabiting agricultural edges, river bottoms, and lower elevation woodlands. All species are most active during the cool morning and late afternoon hours.
Conservation efforts are crucial to conserve squirrel populations, ensuring that these species, including the gray squirrel, continue to thrive in their natural habitats.
Spotting and Still-Hunting Tactics
Still-hunting along mountain ridges, rocky draws, and creek beds lined with hardwoods is an effective shooting tactic. Hunting squirrels can be hard due to their quick movements and the need for precise shooting. Move slowly and quietly, stopping often to scan the canopy for feeding squirrels or listen for the sound of claws scraping bark and pinecones falling. Glassing from open ridges into pine stands and along brushy edges helps locate squirrels feeding or moving through cover.
Best Areas to Hunt
The Lincoln National Forest, Gila National Forest, and Carson National Forest offer excellent squirrel hunting opportunities. Agency biologists at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish play a critical role in identifying these prime hunting locations. Ponderosa pine belts, riparian areas with cottonwoods and oaks, and brushy edges near water sources are prime locations. Hunters should focus on areas with abundant mast crops like pine nuts, acorns, and seeds. Understanding the surrounding regulations is crucial for hunting in these areas to ensure the conservation of wildlife populations.
Gear and Strategy
A .22 rifle is perfect for precision shots in open terrain, while a .410 or 20-gauge shotgun is effective for quick, close shots in dense cover. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish provides guidelines for hunting gear and strategy, ensuring hunters are well-prepared. Layered clothing, sturdy boots, and hydration packs are essential for navigating rough, often dry landscapes. Early season hunts in New Mexico’s higher elevations require patience, a sharp eye, and careful movement through challenging ground. Understanding the regulations and guidelines set by the department is crucial for a successful and responsible hunting experience.
Conclusion
Squirrel hunting in New Mexico offers a distinctive small game adventure in some of the West’s most scenic and rugged country. Whether easing through a sun-dappled pine forest or glassing the edges of a rocky arroyo, hunters will find plenty of action and a strong connection to the land in the Land of Enchantment.
It is crucial to manage wildlife populations through science-based conservation efforts to ensure sustainable hunting practices and the ethical treatment of wildlife.
FAQs
What species of squirrels can I hunt in New Mexico?
Abert’s squirrels, gray squirrels, and fox squirrels are all huntable in various parts of the state.
When is squirrel hunting season in New Mexico?
The season typically runs from early fall into winter. Always check current regulations.
It is crucial to raise awareness surrounding regulations set by agency biologists, as public misunderstanding can lead to misinterpretation of hunting initiatives and affect wildlife management and conservation efforts.
What firearm is best for New Mexico squirrel hunting?
A .22 rifle for precision shots or a .410 or 20-gauge shotgun for thicker cover.
Understanding the course of shooting techniques is crucial for effective squirrel hunting, as it helps in adapting to different conditions and overcoming various challenges in the field.
Where are the best areas to hunt squirrels?
Lincoln, Gila, and Carson National Forests are top destinations.
There is often a public misperception regarding the best areas to hunt and the importance of following regulations.
Can I hunt squirrels on public land?
Yes, New Mexico offers abundant public access through its national forests and public lands. NMDGF spokesperson Darren Vaughan has emphasized the agency's efforts to promote hunting on public land while ensuring that the public understands wildlife conservation regulations and the historical significance of small-game hunting in New Mexico.
What’s the best time of day to hunt squirrels?
Early morning and late afternoon when squirrels are most active. Hunters often find themselves curious about the unique challenges and experiences these times of day present.
What gear should I bring?
Layered clothing, durable boots, hydration supplies, binoculars, and a small daypack.
It's also important to understand the resources provided by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish for hunting gear.
Are squirrels good to eat?
Yes, squirrel meat is tender and flavorful, perfect for stews and roasting. It is important to consume the edible parts of squirrels to avoid waste, reflecting ethical hunting practices and conservation efforts.
How do I spot squirrels in scrub country?
Glassing edges, listening for feeding sounds, and watching for movement among pines and brush. Additionally, spotting squirrels amidst the leaves can be challenging as the foliage often obscures visibility, making the hunting experience more engaging.
Why is squirrel hunting popular in New Mexico?
The combination of scenic landscapes, diverse species, and traditional hunting challenge make it a rewarding pursuit.
In fact, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish plays a significant role in promoting squirrel hunting and the importance of understanding the regulations.