Can You Hunt Squirrels In Washington State

Publish date: 2024-07-15

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So You Want to Bag a Buzzy Buddy in the Evergreen State? Hold Your Horses (or Should We Say, Squirrels?)

Ah, Washington state. The land of majestic mountains, shimmering lakes, and...squirrel hunting? Well, maybe hold off on that squirrel stew just yet, pardner. Hunting these bushy-tailed bandits in Washington can be a bit of a nutty situation (see what we did there?).

Not All Squirrels Were Created Equal: A Tale of Two Species

First things first, Washington boasts two main types of squirrels: the eastern grey squirrel and the western grey squirrel. Here's where things get interesting:

Eastern Grey Squirrel: These cheeky chaps are fair game. They're not exactly endangered and can be hunted year-round with a proper license, though some areas might have restrictions. But be sure to check local regulations! You don't want to be that guy accidentally starting a squirrel uprising in your neighborhood.
Western Grey Squirrel: This little fella is a whole different story. Unfortunately, our western grey friend is a protected species in Washington. So, while they may be tempting targets for your inner squirrel-sniper, admiring them from afar is the only legal option.

So, How Do I Know Which Squirrel is Which?

Don't worry, we won't quiz you on squirrel identification at the border. Eastern greys are typically larger and have a more prominent white belly patch compared to their western cousins. But hey, there's an app for that! The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has a handy app to help you identify your local squirrel population.

Didn't Come Here for Ornithology Lessons, Just Wanna Hunt Some Squirrels!

We hear you! If eastern grey squirrels are your quarry, be sure to grab a hunting license. These can be obtained online or at authorized license dealers. Remember, responsible hunting is key. Always follow hunting regulations, respect private property, and prioritize safety.

Squirrel Hunting FAQs:

How to get a hunting license in Washington? Head to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for all the info you need.
How to identify an eastern grey squirrel? Check out the WDFW website or download their helpful app for squirrel ID tips.
How to hunt squirrels safely? Always prioritize safety! Take a hunter safety course, wear blaze orange, and be aware of your surroundings.
How to cook a delicious squirrel stew? Alright, we can't help you there (since it might involve a western grey squirrel). But there are plenty of recipes online for ethically-sourced eastern grey squirrel dishes!
How to avoid accidentally angering a pack of revenge-seeking squirrels? Probably best to stick to the legal stuff. These little guys hold grudges, you know.

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