10/09/2026
Our Park Resource Ranger, Yazmin, joined the PA Game Commission (PGC) this week to help stock pheasants at Swatara in preparation for the youth pheasant hunting season starting tomorrow, Saturday, October 10!
Just one minor detail..when Yazmin was asked if she’d like to help, her response was, “pheasants are birds, right?”😂🪶Well, we admire the enthusiasm, even if the wildlife ID skills are still in progress. And nothing like a little hands-on professional development!
These colorful, surprisingly speedy birds are stocked by the PGC to provide hunting opportunities, introduce young hunters to the outdoors and help families continue generations of outdoor traditions.
🍁 FALL IS FOR EVERYONE!
With hunting seasons underway, the park’s trails and fields are getting busy. We’ve got hikers leaf peeping, bikers zooming, horseback riders clip-clopping and hunters engaging in the ultimate game of hide-and-seek. The good news? There’s room for everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely and respectfully! And a little awareness and courtesy go a long way.
🧡 ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK!
Whether you’re hiking, biking, riding, or dog walking, consider wearing orange during hunting seasons. It’s not just a bold fall fashion statement, it helps you stand out in the woods. Hunters should always follow the fluorescent orange requirements for their season.
🗺️ KNOW YOUR ZONES!
Hunters, be aware of trails and high-traffic recreation areas. Choose hunting locations away from trails whenever possible and always know what’s beyond your target. Remember, sharing public land means being mindful of everyone using it.
👋 BE FRIENDLY, BE VISIBLE, BE AWARE!
A friendly greeting goes a long way. Give fellow park users plenty of space, announce your presence when approaching others and avoid surprising horses or wildlife. We’re all here to enjoy nature, not audition for a jump-scare competition.
🐕 KEEP YOUR FURRY FRIENDS CLOSE!
Dogs must be leashed in state parks unless participating in an activity where an authorized exception applies.
🎯 SAFETY IS ALWAYS IN SEASON!
Hunters must positively ID their target and what’s beyond it. And all visitors should remain alert, respect one another’s activities and follow park rules and regs.
🌲DIFFERENT RECREATION, SHARED APPRECIATION!
Whether you’re holding binoculars, handlebars, reins, a hiking stick, or hunting equipment, we’re all enjoying the same incredible public lands. Hunting is a long-standing outdoor tradition, just as hiking, biking, horseback riding and wildlife watching are valued ways to experience our parks. A little mutual respect ensures everyone gets to enjoy their version of a perfect fall day.
As for Yazmin? She can now officially ID a hen and rooster and add “professional pheasant chauffeur” to her résumé. 📝
Happy hunting, happy trails and good luck to our young hunters this weekend! 🍂
