For Immediate Release :

Pursuant to act:12A, Paragraph:C Section:8
DNR Policy Regarding Summer Drought Conditions Adversly Affecting Michigan Wildlife.
Contact : Ben Hadd, Regional Wildlife Director NRC.

An emergency meeting of the NRC in Lansing today resulted in the following changes to Michigan’s 2011 Squirrel Season.

Effective Immediately:
It has been determined that the conditions of the 2010 and 2011 Summer Drought Index concerning wildlife survival rates have been met with recent adverse summer weather due to global warming severely affecting Michigans wild squirrel populations in many of Michigans counties resulting in massive squirrel loss.

Due to the recent severe winter weather conditions affecting Michigan, the following changes have been implemented :

THE HARVESTING OF ONLY MALE SQUIRRELS WILL BE ALLOWED FOR THE 2011 SEASON.

HARVESTING OF FEMALE SQUIRRELS HAS BEEN SUSPENDED INDEFINATLY.

Changes in bag limits FOR 2011:
The new bag limits for the 2011 squirrel season are as follows :
2 male squirrels may be harvested per day.
It has been determined that the testicles of 1 1/2 year old male squirrels are plainly visible to the hunter therfore it is advised to harvest only those with larger, plainly visible testicles.
Scopes are highly recommended.

Transporting squirrels :
The testicles should be plainly visible with at least one testicle left on the animal when transporting. Wrap testicle in a cool, wet napkin to contain and avoid contamination of meat.

Upon contact by a uniformed Conservation Officer all squirrels in possession must be immediately surrendered for testicle inspection.

This temporary restriction will ensure healthy squirrel populations for future generations.
The office of the Michigan Dept. Of Natural Resources deeply regrets any inconvience this may cause hunters, but, feels that due to the circumstances and the resulting decimation of Michigan Squirrel populations this action is appropriate and necessary.

Penalties for violating these restrictions will include fines of 1500.00 per violation and revocation of hunting privileges for 3 years.

Reference: 2004 Wildlife Weather Survival Studies. Global Warming Study. Michigan State University. DNR Mandate 1:7.88 Par.19 1972