Conservation officer Ron Johnson checks a trapper's license in Boone
County. Regulated trapping is an effective method for conserving several
species of wildlife.
I’ve heard a lot of conflicting information about mute swans in Indiana. What is the official policy on these swans and why does the DNR treat them differently from other species of waterfowl such as ducks and geese?
Mute swans have no protection under federal law, but are protected under Indiana law. A nuisance mute swan may be taken with a permit that must be obtained from the DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife beforehand. Mute swans are treated differently from indigenous waterfowl because they are an invasive species. They are not native to North America, they are aggressive toward native wildlife, they are destructive to nesting areas of native wildlife and they can be aggressive toward people, unlike tundra and trumpeter swans, which are native to North America
What are the basic laws with respect to trapping? I’m interested in trapping this winter but am unfamiliar with the differences in equipment and the rules governing its use. What do I need to know to begin trapping within the law?
To trap legally, you must obtain a trapping license, abide by the seasons and use only legal trapping equipment. Due to the intricacy of the process, trapping laws are numerous and can seem complicated to the novice. Be sure to read the trapping regulations closely.
A couple of frequently misinterpreted rules include confusing the term “circumference” with “diameter” with respect to the size of an above-ground snare and the necessity of placing a 330 Conibear trap completely underwater. Trapping laws are generally based on safety and common sense, so following the regulations is a matter of safety as well as legality. DNR law enforcement offers a free trapper education course. Check the availability of this program in your area at www.dnr.IN.gov/lawenfor/education/hunt-edu.htm.
I noticed in the hunting regulations that certain species are designated as upland game. I’ve heard the term “upland hunting” in conversation with other hunters, but am not sure what it means. What is upland hunting and how is it different from other types of hunting?
While the exact etymological origins of the term “upland hunting” are unclear, upland hunting can be defined as a specific style of hunting. Generally speaking, upland hunting requires the hunter to move (as opposed to sitting and waiting) in pursuit of game, usually with the aid of a sporting dog. More specifically (and logically), upland hunters hunt game that necessitates these tactics. Animals such as quail and pheasant are traditionally considered upland game, with rabbits being added to the list in Indiana since they are also hunted on the move, sometimes with the help of dogs. Also keep in mind that unlike other types of hunting, Indiana requires that upland hunters wear hunter orange at all times during the season.
To submit a question to Ask a CO, email OI@dnr.IN.gov or write to Outdoor Indiana, Ask a Conservation Officer, 402 W. Washington Street, Suite W255B, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
