HUNTER RESPONSIBILITY
The topic of hunting ethics can be debated by non-hunters and hunters alike. It is virtually impossible for all both sides of the hunting/non-hunting issues to come together on the subject of outdoor ethics. Ethics are a personal belief or a behavior expected by certain groups, such as hunters and can rarely be changed to conform to another's belief.
Ethical behavior is not mandated by law or regulations, but by an individual's sense of right and wrong. As outdoor recreationalists we must universally agree to treat the outdoors, the activities we are participants in, and with each other with respect.
Outdoor Ethics
Outdoor ethics require that one acts to the highest level of responsibility towards the private landowners, the wildlife resource, the people with whom you share the outdoors with, and towards the wilderness itself.
Public opinion affects legislation about hunting, fishing, and other uses of the land. The public judges the actions of the group, like hunters, by the poor judgment of a few. It is imperative that all hunters, fisherman, outdoor enthusiasts conduct themselves in a responsible manner in order to preserve our heritage.
YOUR Responsibility Afield
Responsibility is the key to the continuation of hunting as a sport. It is your responsibility to know and adhere to the laws and licensing requirements for Colorado. There is no excuse for ignorance of the law.
For example, private landowners in Colorado do not need to post, fence, or mark in any way their property. It is your responsibility to know if you are on national forest, state, or private property. Be aware that there are private properties within the national forest boundaries.
The following are guidelines every hunter needs to be aware of :
- Think of safety first and shooting game second. Maintain your equipment so it functions properly and poses no safety threat.
- Responsible hunters have respect for private and public property. Always ask for permission to hunt on private land. "ASK FIRST"
- Understand the regulations for the area they are hunting. Report violations of the law to authorities and property vandalism to landowners.
- Identify your target and never take a shot until certain of the species and sex.
- Do not leave a wounded animal to suffer. All game should be quickly field dressed and cared for to prevent meat spoilage.
- Displaying a carcass on the front hood or bumper of a vehicle is often offensive to others. Responsible hunters transport game in a way that does not offend the general public.
- Responsible hunters should conduct themselves in a manner that will not bias others' opinions of hunters.
Sad but true, a small minority of people do go afield with firearms and do things that shape the public perception that the typical hunter is a slob. Some of the things that hurt the hunters image include leaving trash and litter, leave campfires burning, gates open, and of course shooting the road signs and vandalizing property.
Two of the worst examples of irresponsible actions while hunting are; drinking alcohol before or during hunting, and carrying a loaded firearm on a moving vehicle.
