Michigan’s deer season has officially begun.
Thousands of archers took to the woods this morning to mark the start of bow season, which runs through November 14, then resumes from December 1 – January 1.
According to a state report, over 300,000 archers participated during last year’s ten week season.
Howard Meyerson of the Grand Rapids Press notes that archery participation has increased since 2009, when hunters were first allowed to use crossbows during archery season.
This year, hunters have been tasked with more than just bringing down a big buck, as state wildlife officials are hoping that hunters will help gather information on the spread of a virus that has proven deadly to Michigan deer.
Michigan Radio’s Steve Carmody reported that officials are asking hunters to report any deer they find dead in, or near, a body of water.
The virus, Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), causes a deer’s body temperature to rise, often forcing them to seek water.
The virus is not a threat to humans.
Earlier this year, Grant Fry of Lake Orion told Michigan Radio about the importance of hunting in his family. You can see his story here.
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- Jordan Wyant, Michigan Radio Newsroom
