BIG & SMALL GAME HUNTING
Hunting is far from just haphazardly shooting random animals in the woods. In fact, that notion alone has stemmed from irresponsible individuals who called themselves hunters.
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Hunting entails educating oneself to State regulatory guidelines and safety laws, recognizing endangered species, knowing animal behavior and practicing good hunting ethics.
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The act of hunting can be segmented into the following:
educational safety, situational awareness, tracking, trapping, stalking, shooting, dressing and cleaning.
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EDUCATIONAL SAFETY:
Listed below are a few hunting safety tips -
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1). Practice firearm safety at all times. Therefore, it's best to assume a weapon is loaded and should be treated accordingly.
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2). Enroll in a State Certified Hunter Educational Safety course to remain aware of laws as they may change year-to-year and affect firearms and hunting regulations in your State.
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3). Always identify your target before putting your finger on the trigger.
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4). Never shoot at sound or movement.
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5). Be sure of your target and whatever lies beyond. Know the effective range of your firearm.
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6). Stay aware of other hunters.
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7). Dress defensively by wearing "hunter orange" when in the woods.
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SITUATIONAL AWARENESS:
Besides knowing what's going on around you, situational awareness encompasses being tuned into the physical elements surrounding you. Questions to consider include:
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1). Are weather conditions rapidly changing?
Consider shelter immediately.
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2). What sounds do you hear?
Unusual silence denotes nearby danger.
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3). Do you smell anything unexpected?
Burning wood could mean a campsite or a possible forest fire is nearby. The strong, pungent odor of urine or musk means a predator is near. The aroma of food cooking could mean that campers or a log cabin near.
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4.). Do you see any animal footprints or droppings?
Distinguish which footprints are those of predators and those of prey.
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TRACKING ANIMALS:
When tracking an animal, learn the habits and features of that animal including:
1). Feeding areas and when that species is most likely to feed,
2). Bedding and the materials used to compose that species' place to rest,
3). Footprints are used to identify species; their direction, depth, and drag; that denote food sources, water sources, weight and injury (if any),
4). Droppings can be used to determine species; food intake and food sources (plant and animal), and
5). Times when roosting and feeding.
The picture above illustrates some of the various animal tracks found in the American forest.
To purchase Hunting and Archery equipment and supplies including camouflage gear, knives, bows, arrows, bowstrings and gloves; simply click on the Hunter's Chest icon.
To purchase books on Survivalism, Hunting, Archery and Prepping along with premiere camping equipment; simply click on the Roadside Bookstore icon.