Bird hunters are encouraged to hunt with a trained bird dog to improve their chances of finding grouse, woodcock, pheasants or other downed game. WMAs have specific use regulations in addition to general state land regulations. Hunting, trapping and fishing is permitted in these areas except where specifically restricted by posted notice. For information on hunting and trapping opportunities and rules governing the use of State land, contact the DEC regional office nearest to the county you wish to hunt. Statistics show that hunters who wear hunter orange are seven times less likely to be injured by another hunter.
Populations vary considerably between locations and from year to year.
Chances for success can be greatly increased by working brushy fields and areas with thick ground cover and by hunting with trained beagles. Hunters can increase the chances when hunting grouse by working pole stands and the edges of old fields and wooded areas. Overgrown apple orchards are popular locations for experienced grouse hunters. Where you locate an abundance of wild foods, such as, berries or beechnuts, grouse are also likely to be found. While squirrel season has been open for almost one month in New York State, opportunities for squirrel hunters are at their height during the month of October.