Pennsylvania Game Commission

Pennsylvania Game Commission MISSION: To manage Pennsylvania's wild birds and mammals and their habitat for current and future generations. For more than 100 years, the Game Commission has managed the Commonwealth's wildlife resources for all Pennsylvanians.
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With the help of more than 700 full-time employees and thousands of part-timers and volunteers, the agency provides a host of benefits to wildlife, state residents and visitors.

Mission: Managing wild birds and wild mammals and their habitats for current and future generations.

Operating as usual

Earlier today, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives recognized the 125th anniversary of the Pennsylvania Game Commi...
10/21/2020

Earlier today, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives recognized the 125th anniversary of the Pennsylvania Game Commission by unanimously adopting House Resolution 1061 [https://bit.ly/3dN0a9q], sponsored by PA State Rep. Tom Mehaffie of Dauphin County. As the state’s wildlife agency, the Game Commission has proudly managed Pennsylvania’s wild birds, wild mammals, and their habitats for 125 years.

🔸 In 1895, Rep. George Dunkle, of Dauphin County, introduced a bill that was signed into law by Gov. Daniel H. Hastings, which created the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

🔸 In 1913, all resident hunters were required to purchase a hunting license for $1. The first year, there were approximately 305,000 hunters. Today, Pennsylvania has nearly 1 million hunters annually, both resident and non-resident.

🔸 In 1920, the first state game lands were purchased, SGL No. 25, containing 6,288 acres, in Elk County, for $2.75 per acre. Today, the agency manages more than 1.5 million acres of game lands across the state.

🔸 In 1936, the first student class enrolled in the Game Commission’s own Ross Leffler School of Conservation, America’s first game protector school, with 27 men graduating. Today, 701 wildlife conservation officers have graduated.

The Game Commission is currently responsible for managing 480 species of wildlife and their habitats for current and future generations. Wildlife, as well as hunting and trapping, have always been important parts of our state’s cultural heritage. Every day it touches the lives of countless Pennsylvanians and most of us consider wildlife to be state treasure.

Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) tags are still available to purchase for the 2020-21 hunting season! The follo...
10/21/2020

Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) tags are still available to purchase for the 2020-21 hunting season! The following DMAP units still have DMAP tags available: DMAP Unit 3468 in Lancaster County, 3934 in Clearfield County, 4311 in Cambria County, 4313 in Westmoreland County, 4314 in Franklin County, 4315 in Snyder County and 4316 in Blair County. Hunters can purchase a DMAP permit at various issuing agents across the state or online ➡️ www.pa.wildlifelicense.com.

Please note, DMAP tags can only be used within the unit they’re issued. Each DMAP tag can be used to harvest one antlerless deer. Hunters can obtain two to four DMAP tags for depending on the unit.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission would like to ask hunters who harvest deer in a DMA to once again submit their deer heads for CWD testing. The information provided helps the Game Commission better monitor and manage CWD in the state.

Locations of DMAP units, head collection bins, and high-risk parts dumpsters can be found here ➡️ https://bit.ly/3d7F5Gj.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission will be upgrading approximately half of the Sandy Ridge Trail, a road on State Game Lan...
10/21/2020

The Pennsylvania Game Commission will be upgrading approximately half of the Sandy Ridge Trail, a road on State Game Lands 33, in Rush Township, Centre County. The work is expected to run through Nov. 20, 2020, and it will cause delays and closures, at times.

The project will mostly be concentrated on the section of road from State Route 322 to halfway to Ponderosa Drive. The road will be open for travel on weekends, as well as the Thursday and Friday of Muzzleloader season. We apologize for the inconvenience, but the project will provide much better road access for many years to come, once completed.

From August to December each year thousands of raptors or birds of prey pass through Pennsylvania on their way south. Du...
10/21/2020

From August to December each year thousands of raptors or birds of prey pass through Pennsylvania on their way south. During this time, raptors can be commonly seen flying along the ridges of the Appalachian mountain, which provide upward currents that give the birds lift. There are many locations to watch migrating raptors in Pennsylvania, like Waggoner’s Gap along the border of Cumberland and Perry Counties. Find more locations here ➡️ https://bit.ly/33lRKCc.

While visiting these locations, watch for Northern Goshawks, whose southward migration in November provides a unique opportunity to view this secretive bird. Goshawks are large blue-gray raptors who prefer to nest deep in Pennsylvania’s forests. Goshawks were never considered a common species in Pennsylvania and reports suggest goshawk populations are declining. In fact, goshawks are identified as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Pennsylvania’s Wildlife Action Plan through breeding, migratory, and winter seasons due to range wide concerns for the species and Pennsylvania’s role in supporting these magnificent birds at all stages of their annual cycle.

Help us learn more about this declining species by emailing your goshawk sighting to the Pennsylvania Goshawk Project at [email protected]. The Pennsylvania Goshawk Project (run by a subcommittee of the Ornithological Technical Committee of the Pennsylvania Biological Survey in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Game Commission) collects reports of goshawk sightings throughout the state. Reports are confidential to protect the birds.

"LIKE" the NEW "Operation Game Thief, Pennsylvania Game Commission" page here: www.facebook.com/OperationGameTh...
10/20/2020

"LIKE" the NEW "Operation Game Thief, Pennsylvania Game Commission" page here: www.facebook.com/OperationGameThiefPGC.

Wildlife crimes effect everyone. The Game Commission’s Operation Game Thief program serves to protect wild birds and wild mammals by encouraging those with information related to wildlife crimes to report details as soon as possible.

To report information, call the Operation Game Thief’s toll-free hotline – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year – at 1-888-PGC-8001 or fill out an online form here: http://bit.ly/PGCOGT.

Thank you in advance for your assistance in helping to protect Pennsylvania wildlife!

Wildlife crimes affect everyone. The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Operation Game Thief program serves to protect wild birds and wild mammals and encourages those who have information related to wildlife crimes to report details as soon as possible.

To report information, call the Operation Game Thief’s toll-free hotline – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year – at 1-888-PGC-8001 or fill out an online form at http://bit.ly/PGCOGT.

Calls to the Operation Game Thief hotline are always answered by a secure recording device. Although it is beneficial to provide contact information in case game wardens have follow-up questions, callers may remain confidential.

Learn more about the program here: http://bit.ly/PGCOGT.

Don’t forget to report your harvest! Remember, it’s legally your responsibility as a Pennsylvania hunter to report your ...
10/20/2020

Don’t forget to report your harvest! Remember, it’s legally your responsibility as a Pennsylvania hunter to report your big game harvests within 10 days. By reporting your harvest, you're providing information that will aid in our biologist's decision making process and tag allocations for not only next year, but for years to come. You can report your harvest online, by phone or send via mail.

Report your harvest online here ➡️ https://bit.ly/2IHWytT.

Hunters harvesting bears during the statewide archery bear season, or during any early season should contact the Game Commission region office for instructions to have the animals checked. During the regular firearms season, a successful bear hunter must, within 24 hours, take the animal, along with his or her hunting license and bear license, to a Game Commission Bear Check Station. A list of locations can be found on pages 37-38 of the 2020-21 Hunting and Trapping Digest ➡️ https://bit.ly/2FInNDF.

In an effort to reduce the number of tree stand related injuries this hunting season, tree stand users are reminded to w...
10/19/2020

In an effort to reduce the number of tree stand related injuries this hunting season, tree stand users are reminded to wear a harness while hunting. Wearing a fall arrest system or full-body harness is the best way to prevent hitting the ground and being seriously hurt if you should fall. Always wear a harness and keep it attached to the tree when hunting from, installing, or taking down a tree stand.

Transitions in and out of the stand are most dangerous. Using a lifeline can help prevent falls when getting in and out of the stand.

Remember: Hunt Safely. Wear a harness.

More tree hunting safety tips ➡️ https://bit.ly/3mMj04Q.

CLARIFICATION POST: There is a post containing false information circulating on social media, featuring the Pennsylvania...
10/16/2020

CLARIFICATION POST: There is a post containing false information circulating on social media, featuring the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s name and logo, stating hunters would be required to wear fluorescent orange face masks while hunting this year. This is NOT TRUE.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission IS NOT requiring hunters to wear fluorescent orange face masks while hunting this fall. All fluorescent orange requirements are outlined in the 2020-21 Hunting and Trapping Digest.

Help spread the word to fellow Pennsylvania hunters by correcting related posts. Agency news and updates can always be found on the agency’s official website www.pgc.pa.gov and verified social media pages.

A regulatory change adopted since last hunting season allows properly licensed bowhunters to carry muzzleloaders when an...
10/16/2020

A regulatory change adopted since last hunting season allows properly licensed bowhunters to carry muzzleloaders when any deer or bear archery or muzzleloader seasons overlap. The change allows archery deer or bear hunters to carry muzzleloaders during the Oct. 17-24 muzzleloader bear season, and use muzzleloaders during that time to harvest bears. Properly licensed hunters also may use muzzleloaders to harvest antlerless deer during this period since the antlerless-only muzzleloader deer season also runs from Oct. 17-24. The statewide archery bear season runs from Oct. 17-Nov. 7. The statewide archery deer season is now underway and runs until Nov. 20.

When carrying muzzleloaders during the October muzzleloader deer and bear seasons, hunters at all times must wear at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange material on the head, chest and back, combined, visible from 360 degrees.

Carrying firearms generally is prohibited while bowhunting. Aside from the exemption that applies during overlaps in the muzzleloader deer and bear seasons, holders of License to Carry Firearms permits may possess their permitted firearms while bowhunting.

Junior and Senior license holders, those with disabled person permits, and Pennsylvania residents serving on active duty in the armed forces, may hunt bears or antlerless deer with a rifle during the special firearms season from Oct. 22-24. These individuals may not hunt antlered deer during the special firearms season while in possession of a rifle.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Northeast Region is seeking information related to the illegal taking of a male cinna...
10/14/2020

The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Northeast Region is seeking information related to the illegal taking of a male cinnamon-phase black bear, weighing approximately 325 pounds, that was found near Sterling Road and State Game Lands 221, located in Coolbaugh Township in Monroe County.

The state game warden’s investigation suggested the animal was probably killed between Friday, October 9, 2020 and Sunday, October 11, 2020.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call the Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-888-PGC-8001 or the Game Commission NE Region Office at (570) 675-1143. Reports can also be made online at http://bit.ly/PGCOGT. All information is kept confidential.

Thank you in advance for your assistance in helping to protect Pennsylvania wildlife!

From August to December each year thousands of raptors or birds of prey pass through Pennsylvania on their way south. Du...
10/14/2020

From August to December each year thousands of raptors or birds of prey pass through Pennsylvania on their way south. During this time, raptors can be commonly seen flying along the ridges of the Appalachian mountain, which provide upward currents that give the birds lift. There are many locations to watch migrating raptors in Pennsylvania, like Hawk Mountain Sanctuary along the border of Berks and Schuylkill Counties. Find more locations here ➡️ https://bit.ly/33lRKCc.

Known for the golden-colored feathers covering their head and neck, golden eagles are large raptors that do not breed in Pennsylvania. However, large numbers travel along the Appalachian Mountain ridgeline during northbound and southbound migrations, making golden eagles a stewardship responsibility species in Pennsylvania’s Wildlife Action Plan. Read more here ➡️ https://bit.ly/36XFcn3.

Like the bald eagle, this scavenger is particularly at risk of exposure to lead in the environment. Hunters can help reduce lead impacting wildlife by choosing to use non-lead ammunition and burying any carcass or gut pile to prevent scavengers from ingesting lead fragments.

EPISODE 10: State of the Pennsylvania Deer Herd: Fall 2020 -- LISTEN HERE 🎧➡️ https://bit.ly/34SEgO1.Not only is the whi...
10/13/2020

EPISODE 10: State of the Pennsylvania Deer Herd: Fall 2020 -- LISTEN HERE 🎧➡️ https://bit.ly/34SEgO1.

Not only is the white-tailed deer Pennsylvania’s state mammal and most popular game species, but here in the Keystone State, we have some of the most deer hunters in the country! To celebrate fall and a new deer season, this episode is completely focused on deer and what’s been done to manage the herd for current and future generations.

Chris Rosenberry, the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Game Management Division Chief, provides an inside look into our state’s deer management strategies. Prior to his current role, Chris served as the agency’s Deer and Elk Section Chief, and he’s also a Pennsylvania native and lifelong deer hunter.

Call of the Outdoor Podcast is Available Now! ➡️ Episodes are available on www.calloftheoutdoorspgc.com, Apple Podcasts, Google Play Store, iHeartRadio, Spotify and Stitcher.

In an effort to reduce the number of tree stand related injuries this hunting season, tree stand users are reminded to w...
10/13/2020

In an effort to reduce the number of tree stand related injuries this hunting season, tree stand users are reminded to wear a harness while hunting. Wearing a fall arrest system or full-body harness is the best way to prevent hitting the ground and being seriously hurt if you should fall. Always wear a harness and keep it attached to the tree when hunting from, installing, or taking down a tree stand.

Don’t get caught up in your gear when climbing. Use a haul rope to pull gear, including unloaded guns and bows, from the ground to you after you are in the stand.

Remember: Hunt Safely. Wear a harness. For more tree hunting safety tips ➡️ https://bit.ly/3mMj04Q

The Pennsylvania Game Commission would like to thank all of the hunters who submitted their deer for CWD testing during ...
10/12/2020

The Pennsylvania Game Commission would like to thank all of the hunters who submitted their deer for CWD testing during the 2019-2020 hunting season! Last year, the Pennsylvania Game Commission tested over 15,000 free-ranging deer (with 7,516 of those being submitted by hunters) for CWD in the state, with 204 testing positive.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission would like to ask hunters who harvest deer in a DMA to once again submit their deer heads for CWD testing. The information provided helps the Game Commission better monitor and manage CWD in the state.

To get your deer tested please place your deer head, double bagged and with the harvest tag attached to the ear, in a head collection container within the DMA it was harvested. Please note, while a random sample of deer heads are collected from processors by the Game Commission every year, the only way to ensure your deer head will be tested is to properly place it in a head collection container. Locations of head collection containers can be found here ➡️ https://bit.ly/3d7F5Gj.

Questions about CWD can be emailed to [email protected].

Congratulations to Finn Podlucky, age 7, who harvested his first doe, with a crossbow, on October 3, 2020 in Indiana Cou...
10/12/2020

Congratulations to Finn Podlucky, age 7, who harvested his first doe, with a crossbow, on October 3, 2020 in Indiana County!

During this hunt, Finn was mentored by his father Ryan, who is a school teacher who at Ligonier Valley School District. Ryan leads the school’s outdoor club and helped the Game Commission get hunter education into the school district.

More information about mentor hunters can be found on page 14 of the 2020-21 Hunting and Trapping Digest: https://bit.ly/2SAyPO2.

Do you know what game bird this foot belongs to? Look for the answer tomorrow in the comments below! "Wildlife challenge...
10/10/2020

Do you know what game bird this foot belongs to? Look for the answer tomorrow in the comments below!

"Wildlife challenges" are part of the Game Commission’s virtual learning initiative, Wildlife on Wifi. For more online learning opportunities, virtual lessons and educational resources about wildlife and conservation, check out the Game Commission Wildlife on Wifi webpage here: https://www.pgc.pa.gov/Education/VirtualLearning/Pages/default.aspx.

There’s nothing wrong with having questions. But having answers is even better.Hunters pursuing deer across Pennsylvania...
10/09/2020

There’s nothing wrong with having questions. But having answers is even better.

Hunters pursuing deer across Pennsylvania – and particularly where Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) exists – can access those this fall.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is offering a CWD hotline where hunters with questions about where CWD is, what special rules apply in those places, how to handle deer they harvest in Disease Management Areas (DMAs) and more can quickly and easily get information. It’s 1-833-INFOCWD (1-833-463-6293).

Those who prefer to reach the Game Commission via email can get their answers at [email protected].

Read the full news release ➡️ https://www.media.pa.gov/pages/game-commission-details.aspx?newsid=425

Pennsylvania’s junior pheasant hunt opens statewide TOMORROW, October 10, 2020! The Game Commission would like to wish a...
10/09/2020

Pennsylvania’s junior pheasant hunt opens statewide TOMORROW, October 10, 2020! The Game Commission would like to wish all junior pheasant hunters a safe and successful season.

Junior hunters and mentored permit holders under 17 will require a FREE pheasant permit to hunt pheasants. Please note, junior hunters must follow the same bag limits and regulations as the regular season. Junior pheasant hunt stocking locations are available here ➡️ https://bit.ly/3iFl3V2.

Don’t forget the statewide general pheasant hunting season takes place on Oct. 24-Nov.27, Dec. 14-24, and Dec.26-Feb. 27. All adult hunters and some senior hunters who pursue pheasants in Pennsylvania are required to purchase a pheasant permit in addition to a general hunting license.

Address

2001 Elmerton Ave
Harrisburg, PA
17110-9797

General information

NORTHWEST Region Office: Butler, Clarion, Crawford, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, Mercer, Venango & Warren counties 814-432-3187, 814-432-3188, 814-432-3189 SOUTHWEST Region Office: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Somerset, Washington & Westmoreland counties 724-238-9523, 724-238-9524, 724-238-5639 NORTHCENTRAL Region Office: Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Lycoming, McKean, Potter, Tioga & Union counties – 570-398-4744, 570-398-4745, 570-398-3423; [email protected] SOUTHCENTRAL Region Office: Adams, Bedford, Blair, Cumberland, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Mifflin, Perry, Snyder & York counties – 814-643-1831, 814-643-9635 NORTHEAST Region Office: Bradford, Carbon, Columbia Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Montour, Northumberland, Pike, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne & Wyoming – 570-675-1143, 570-675-1144 SOUTHEAST Region Office: Berks, Bucks, Chester, Dauphin, Delaware, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia & Schuylkill counties – 610-926-3136, 610-926-3137, 610-926-1966

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 16:00
Thursday 08:00 - 16:00
Friday 08:00 - 16:00

Telephone

(717) 787-4250

Website

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Videos

CWD Facebook Live Q&A - Oct. 2020
CWD Facebook Live Q&A - Oct. 2020

Tune in live for updates related to Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Pennsylvania and ask your related questions.

Good Luck PA Archery Hunters!
Good Luck PA Archery Hunters!

Celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day
Celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day

Hunters and anglers are the original conservationists and National Hunting and Fishing Day is dedicated to recognizing them for their many contributions to wildlife conservation. THANK YOU, Pennsylvania hunters and anglers, for buying your hunting and fishing licenses and doing YOUR part to support conservation efforts in the Keystone State. These license revenues, along with gear, ammunitions and many other related items, directly helps to fund these important efforts. We have a lot to be proud of here in Pennsylvania and our passion for the great outdoors is simply unmatched. Happy National Hunting and Fishing Day from the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission! We wish you the best of luck in the woods and on the water this fall!

Fall 2020: State of the Deer Herd
Fall 2020: State of the Deer Herd

As we head into the fall 2020 deer hunting seasons, check out “State of the Deer Herd” with Game Management Division Chief Chris Rosenberry. Pennsylvania continues to be one of the top deer hunting states in the country. Last year, our hunters harvested more than 100,000 adult bucks, which is about three times more than the mid-90s. Looking to the future, Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) continues to be a concern for our deer in the Commonwealth. Hunters will play an important role in CWD management efforts for decades to come. Good luck this fall and please report your deer harvests! Have fun out there and hunt safely!

Good Luck Pennsylvania Hunters.
Good Luck Pennsylvania Hunters.

The 2020-21 Hunting Season is almost here! Pennsylvania’s dove and Canada goose seasons open tomorrow, September 1st. Here are a few words from Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans. Good luck and stay safe!

125 Years of Wildlife Conservation Leadership
125 Years of Wildlife Conservation Leadership

Join us in celebrating National Wildlife Day, a day to raise awareness of all wildlife species! For 125 years, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has been the state's wildlife agency, working to manage all wild birds, wild mammals and their habitats in the Commonwealth! This video provides an inside look into the work the agency has done, for the betterment of wildlife, making it a leader in wildlife conservation! Pennsylvania is home to 480 species of wildlife. This includes wild mammals and wild birds of the game, non-game and endangered varieties. Click here to learn more about them: https://bit.ly/31wdoTC. Thank you to the passionate men and women who work here in Pennsylvania, (and beyond), to protect our wildlife every day! Pennsylvania’s wildlife benefits tremendously from our game protectors, hunters, biologists, land managers, foresters, instructors, rehabilitators, volunteers and everyone who has a hand in wildlife conservation.

2020 Elk Drawing Update
2020 Elk Drawing Update

Live from Elk Country!

Managed Dove Fields in Pennsylvania
Managed Dove Fields in Pennsylvania

Interested in hunting doves this year in Pennsylvania? The season opens on Sept. 1, 2020! Pennsylvania Game Commission Mourning Dove Biologist Tom Keller shares some insight on Managed Dove Fields in PA. We have more than 550 acres and you can find details about each of the fields on an interactive map: https://bit.ly/33urJRZ. Tom tells us how to tell when a dove field is ready, how the Game Commission manages these lands and more. Visit www.pgc.pa.gov for more!

Pennsylvania's 2020-21 Hunting Licenses are Now On Sale
Pennsylvania's 2020-21 Hunting Licenses are Now On Sale

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend! Here's a special message from Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans with a few other timely reminders! Pennsylvania's new 2020-21 hunting licenses are now on sale. The first round of Antlerless Deer License Applications for residents begins Monday, July 13. And Pennsylvania's Elk Tag Applications are available for purchase through July 31. Enjoy some time in the great outdoors this weekend!

Pennsylvania's 2020-21 Hunting Licenses Now Available
Pennsylvania's 2020-21 Hunting Licenses Now Available

Pennsylvania's NEW 2020-21 Hunting Licenses are now on sale! Click here for details and information about how to buy your new license today: https://bit.ly/2MEIMqz. Thank YOU for being a Pennsylvania hunter! We wish you a safe and a successul year.

Marsh Bird Surveys
Marsh Bird Surveys

Game Commission Northeast Region Bio Aide, Robyn Crouthamel, plays the gunk-a-gunk call of the Pennsylvania endangered American bittern while conducting a marsh bird survey in Luzerne County. Throughout May, Game Commission biologists and volunteers—citizen scientists—have been taking to the swamps, playing recordings of bird calls in hopes of eliciting responses. These statewide surveys help biologist locate these secretive birds and provide a better understanding of the statewide distribution and relative abundance of these rare species. The information collected from these surveys promote conservation efforts for declining wetland habitat and the birds that depend on it. “We currently have 14 of 15 targeted species documented across the state,” said Game Commission Endangered Bird Biologist Patti Barber. “This survey will give us a “snapshot” of marsh bird prevalence and abundance that can be used to guide sound habitat management decisions.”

Celebrating 100 Years of Pennsylvania's State Game Lands System
Celebrating 100 Years of Pennsylvania's State Game Lands System

Join us today in celebrating 1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ YEARS of Pennsylvania's State Game Lands System! 🎉 State Game Lands 25, which originally consisted of 6,288 acres in Elk County, was the first game lands, established in 1920. Today, more than 1.5 MILLION acres of game lands are managed by the Game Commission for the primary purpose of conserving and preserving Pennsylvania wildlife, both game and non-game species! [1.5 million total acres is larger than the entire state of Delaware]. We remain grateful to the Pennsylvania Game Commission's forefathers for their great vision to dedicate public land for wildlife, hunting, trapping, wildlife watching and recreation. Thank you to Pennsylvania hunting license buyers for supporting wildlife conservation in our state, which includes wildlife management on our more than 300 state game lands. And thank you to the men and women who have worked to manage these special lands for the last 100 years!

Luzerne County Fawn Rescue
Luzerne County Fawn Rescue

Deputy State Game Warden Mike Pevear, who serves in Luzerne County, recently found himself ankle-deep in mud with a bawling fawn after it fell to the bottom of a 8-foot deep cement water reservoir in Exeter Township. He patiently waited for the fawn to calm down before rescuing it by wrapping it in a blanket and hoisting it to safety. The fawn bounded away, seemingly no worse for wear. DSGW Pevear extends a special thanks for the Kirby family for their help with the rescue.

Buy Your 2020-21 Pennsylvania Hunting License on June 22
Buy Your 2020-21 Pennsylvania Hunting License on June 22

Pennsylvania hunters, mark your calendars for Monday, June 22, the day you can get your new 2020-21 hunting license! More details here: https://bit.ly/2MEIMqz. Pennsylvania’s hunting license fees haven’t increased since 1999 and we’re excited for the expanded opportunities the upcoming license year will provide. Thank you for being a Pennsylvania hunter. Have fun. Be safe. And good luck in the woods!

Barn Owl Recovers
Barn Owl Recovers

We’re sharing some great and heartwarming news this morning. Pennsylvania Game Commission Diversity Biologist Rich Fritsky recently released this mature barn owl after it spent weeks of rehabilitation at the Centre Wildlife Care facility in Lemont. You might remember a few weeks ago, we shared an Operation Game Thief case out of Montour County, where this mature barn owl was found injured and unable to fly. An X-Ray revealed that the bird suffered from multiple pellets discharged from a firearm. State Game Warden Jared Turner transported the bird to the rehabilitator. (You can find the original post here: https://bit.ly/2xMHztz). The owl was released last week on the property of a Northumberland County landowner who participates in the Game Commission’s Barn Owl Conservation Initiative Program by offering his barn as a place for barn owls to bear and rear their young. The Game Commission thanks Centre County Wildlife Care and everyone who had a hand in giving this bird a second chance at survival. The case involving the shooting of this owl remains open. Anyone with information is asked to call the Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-888-PGC-8001 or the Game Commission NE Region Office at 570-675-1143. Wildlife crimes can also be reported anonymously by filling out a form at https://bit.ly/2SYh63K. All information is kept confidential.

#WildSciPA - "Tame" Grouse
#WildSciPA - "Tame" Grouse

Follow Pennsylvania Game Commission Ruffed Grouse Biologist Lisa Willliams as she visits a "tame" grouse. Discover that tame grouse are not really tame and the theories behind why they act the way they do.

Tune in to "Call of the Outdoors," the Game Commission's Podcast
Tune in to "Call of the Outdoors," the Game Commission's Podcast

The Pennsylvania Game Commission is excited to launch its new podcast, “Call of the Outdoors,” a series of episodes focused on wildlife, hunting, habitat and conservation across the Keystone State. Click here for more: https://calloftheoutdoorspgc.com/. Each episode includes a unique look into a Pennsylvania wildlife-related subject, a few laughs, and is sure to leave listeners with a renewed sense of knowledge and pride in the work being done on behalf of wildlife. The first three episodes, being released in conjunction with Pennsylvania’s statewide spring gobbler season, feature a few well-known turkey hunters: Country Music Superstar Blake Shelton, “Bone Collector” Founder Michael Waddell and Game Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans. Episodes are available online at www.calloftheoutdoorspgc.com. Listeners can also subscribe and download podcast episodes on Apple Podcasts, Google Play Store, Spotify and Stitcher. Tune in and join us as we explore lots of ways to promote and enhance our state's wildlife resources for current and future generations!

PGC Turkey Calling Challenge - Let's Hear You, Pennsylvania!
PGC Turkey Calling Challenge - Let's Hear You, Pennsylvania!

Calling all Pennsylvania Turkey Hunters... We want to hear you! Many of us are stuck at home right now, but turkey season is right around the corner. Use this time to safely enjoy the outdoors - get some fresh air and practice your turkey calls! Post videos of you calling in the comment section below. Pennsylvania is home to more than 200,000 turkey hunters and the turkey hunting tradition runs deep here in Penn's Woods. Let's have fun with this and keep it positive and show the rest of the country what Pennsylvania turkey hunting is all about!

A Message from PGC Executive Director Burhans
A Message from PGC Executive Director Burhans

Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans provides an update on the current status of the agency's operations and staff while also providing some insight on some exciting opportunities ahead. Stay safe and healthy out there! Brighter days are ahead.

Celebrating 125 Years of Conservation Leadership
Celebrating 125 Years of Conservation Leadership

The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s start-up was anything but easy. Established by law in 1895, the agency’s existence hinged on an appropriation that could be used only for postage. The six commissioners and chief game protector financed operations from their own pockets, with a handful of wardens working for half the fine money they collected. With the timely establishment of a resident hunting license to provide indispensable capital, and through partnering with legislators to strengthen wildlife laws, the Game Commission quickly became a leader in wildlife conservation that attracted attention and requests for guidance from across the country. Depleted game populations were brought back, songbirds were protected, a state game lands system was assembled to provide habitat and hunting opportunities, and laws to ensure fair-chase and fair-share standards were enforced to enhance the experiences of all Pennsylvanians who cared about The Great Outdoors. These 125 years, the agency has held true to the same principles on which it was founded. The Pennsylvania Game Commission remains a national leader in conservation. While it’s true the agency in the past century and a quarter has assumed greater responsibilities and today carries out its mission amid shrinking habitat statewide and mounting concerns for wildlife’s wellbeing, the Game Commission’s resolve to protect and manage wildlife and habitat is as resolute now as ever. Learn more at www.pgc.pa.gov Tracy A. Graziano: script, cinematography, editing, graphics Hal Korber: cinematography Joe Kosack: script Jack Hicks: narrator Music licensed through stockmusic.net "Legends" by Kirkhaug, 407 Productions "Guardians of Hope" by Kirkhaug, 407 Productions "Reconstruction" by Marshall Smith, APRA

Allegheny Woodrat Release - Northumberland County
Allegheny Woodrat Release - Northumberland County

In Pennsylvania, the Allegheny Woodrat is listed as threatened and protected under the Game and Wildlife Code. This is a recent video of an Allegheny Woodrat being released, (after being tagged), in Northumberland County. This marked the first documentation of woodrats in the state's northeast region in more than a decade! A woodrat was initially discovered after a furtaker pursuing bobcats inadvertently caught it in a trap near State Game Lands 84 in early 2019. He notified the agency and Pennsylvania Game Commission wildlife biologists were soon scouring the area looking for woodrat food caches and communal latrines among a rocky terrain. Once they found sign of the woodrat, they placed cameras to look for denning locations. Within a week, the team had images of several woodrats, as well as a black bear! This past fall, wildlife biologists and technicians returned to the site to hopefully live trap the woodrats in box traps. Three woodrats were captured and tagged on private property near Trevorton and DNA samples were obtained as part of a statewide population monitoring program. Click here to read more about the Allegheny Woodrat and the work the Pennsylvania Game Commission is doing on behalf of the threatened species: https://bit.ly/2vrxlNz.

Erie County Cooper's Hawk Release
Erie County Cooper's Hawk Release

Erie County State Game Wardens Hueser and Jones recently responded to a report of a hawk trapped inside an attic in the city of Erie. When the Wardens arrived, the hawk was clearly visible from the street in an attic window and had been reported by a neighbor. After reassuring the homeowner that she did not have a human intruder in her attic, the Wardens successfully netted and removed the Cooper’s Hawk. It was then evaluated for injuries and successfully released the following day!

Become a Pennsylvania State Game Warden
Become a Pennsylvania State Game Warden

The Pennsylvania Game Commission is now accepting applications through Feb. 25 for its 33rd class of state game wardens. Interested in learning more? Click here: https://bit.ly/2t8rWKM.

Pennsylvania Game Commission Internship Recruitment
Pennsylvania Game Commission Internship Recruitment

Meet Zoe Snyder, a 2019 Pennsylvania Game Commission Wildlife Biology Intern who spent last summer working alongside Game Commission personnel - biologists, game wardens and more - in the Northwest Region. Not only was Zoe an incredible intern, but she did a great job documenting her experiences. She created this video as a way to encourage and inspire future interns to consider pursuing similar opportunities with our agency. Details about current Game Commission internship opportunities can be found by scolling down this page: https://bit.ly/30Nr36J.

Recognizing National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
Recognizing National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

Today is National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day and we want to take a special moment to sincerely thank all members of law enforcement – local, state and federal – for the hard and dedicated work they do on behalf of our families and communities. Their selfless service and commitment to the cause is deeply appreciated. We’d like to give a special shout out to our state game wardens, who have the important and unique duty of defending and protecting our state’s wild mammals and birds, while enforcing all wildlife laws and regulations. Thank you for all that you do for the public and Pennsylvania wildlife!

2019 Pennsylvania Eagle Cam NOW LIVE
2019 Pennsylvania Eagle Cam NOW LIVE

The new Eagle Cam, streaming live from Pennsylvania’s Farm Country, is NOW online! Join us in celebrating Pennsylvania’s growing bald eagle population by enjoying a view of their nest from the top of a big sycamore tree nestled in the farmlands. Click here http://bit.ly/PGCEagleCam to view the live stream and to learn more about bald eagles in our state, as well as their history at this site. Thank you to HDOnTAP and Comcast Business for helping to power this initiative!

Pennsylvania NASP State Tournament
Pennsylvania NASP State Tournament

Watch our latest video [or click here: https://bit.ly/2Ppet9A] to learn more about Pennsylvania's 2020 National Archery in the Schools (NASP) state tournament, which will take place in March on the campus of Penn State University in State College. NASP is a joint venture that partners with state education and wildlife management agencies to promote student education and participation in the lifelong sport of archery. More about the program here: https://bit.ly/2RZFUbK or on the Pennsylvania NASP page.

Opening Day of Firearms Deer Season
Opening Day of Firearms Deer Season

Today's the day we anticipate sunrise. Penn's Woods is alive with the age-old passion of the opening day of deer season. The Pennsylvania Game Commission wishes all our deer hunters good luck and remember to enjoy every minute of your time afield. Thanks for being a hunter and for doing your part for conservation. Hunt safely! [Video by Jacob Dingel].

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When my grandaughter got her hunter saftey & first license her last name was her mothers maiden name . Now its her fathers last name . How do we go about changing it ? She is now 18 & wants to hunt and fish
On October 31st, deer and bear (archery) is open. Turkey is also open. Can’t a hunter legally carry a bow for deer and bear, and a shotgun for turkey?
Way to screw the kids once again Pennsylvania Game Commission! Changing the mentor program to where a child over 7 years old cannot receive a transferred doe tag from their Mentor is one of worst decisions I have ever heard! Thanks for disappointing the kids to make a buck! You are pathetic!
Keeping squirrels as lets... https://www.facebook.com/miracle4you7
I can’t find the answer to this question definitively in the book. On October 31st, archery deer, archery bear, and turkey season will be open concurrently. Can you carry a bow (for deer and bear) AND a bow for turkey? Thanks in advance for any help. Just trying to stay legal.
Me and Daddy are getting ready to get some elk. I am a whopping 3.5 pounds Yorkie bundle of energy waiting to get me some elk antlers! LETSSS GOOO ELK HUNTING !! #elkhuntpa #elkhunting
Me and Daddy are getting ready to get some elk. I am a whopping 3.5 pounds Yorkie bundle of energy waiting to get me some elk antlers! LETSSS GOOO ELK HUNTING !! #elkhuntpa #elkhunting
Can u use break barrel pellet rifle for squirrel hunting ?
So surprised to see this beautiful creature..,a black mink in our garden in McMurray PA. This is the first time we have had a sighting of this animal!
Just wanted to say thank you to Warden Ace in the NW head quarters Sunday who checked my bear. He was very professional and kind Warden Ace took the time to show and explain to my 7 year old everything he was doing and answered his questions. Very pleasant way to “ice the cake” when it came to harvesting my life time hunting goal of a PA black bear. I felt honored to shake his hand and received my certificate of harvest!!!!! Well done PGC!!!!👍🏻👍🏻
Do you need to wear orange right now to shoot a coyote while archery deer hunting? What about to shoot a coyote with a rifle right now during daylight?
For anyone hunting around the fire tower off of 322 in 5B. I just walked to where my tree stand used to be. Someone removed some of my trail markers and stole my stand.