Prowers County in Colorado Hosts Youth Pheasant Hunting Clinic
OutdoorHub 11.02.11
Lamar, Colo. – Youth ages 10 to 16 are invited to learn how to hunt pheasants in an organized hunt at the Mike Higbee State Wildlife Area, Saturday, Nov. 5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The event is sponsored by Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Lamar-based Rebel Roosters chapter of Pheasants Forever. Participants must have a hunter education card and small game license to hunt. An adult guardian must accompany each youth hunter. The day’s activities include a short course on pheasant hunting 101, safety refresher, practice with clay targets, lunch and an afternoon pheasant hunt.
“To help insure young hunters will see pheasants, there will be a release of birds donated by R & R Game Birds of Lamar,” said Linda Groat, an education specialist for Parks and Wildlife. “However, it is important that parents and kids understand that doesn’t guarantee getting a bird. One of the lessons we hope to impart to young hunters is that the joy of hunting doesn’t always mean you harvest an animal,” Groat added.
“The lessons we try to teach are about ethical, safe hunting,” said Groat. “We strive to teach youngsters that there is much to love about hunting even if you don’t harvest an animal. That being said, we decided to put a few extra birds out because there is no substitute for success early in a hunter’s life.”
Parks and Wildlife will supply youth-size shotguns or families can bring their own. Hunters wishing to use their own shotguns must have the guns inspected by a wildlife officer before the hunt.
Space is limited to 40 participants. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis until the hunt fills. Contact Linda Groat at 719-336-6608 to register.
The Mike Higbee State Wildlife Area is located four miles east of Lamar on Highway 50.
For more information about Youth Bird Hunting Opportunities click on the following link: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/HunterOutreach/YouthHuntingBirds/Pages/HOYouth.aspx.
