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COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites new hunters to attend a free virtual clinic on squirrel hunting, followed by a mentored hunting opportunity in Boone County.
The virtual clinic will take place online on Wednesday, Sept. 29, 6–7 p.m. The mentored hunt will take place Saturday, Oct. 2, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.
The virtual clinic will cover wildlife identification, habits and habitat, hunting techniques, safety, regulations, and how to clean and prepare squirrel meat for table fare. Participants in the virtual clinic will have an opportunity to put their skills to the test in the field with a mentored squirrel hunt the following Saturday.
“Squirrel hunting is a great opportunity for hunters with all different experience levels to get outside and enjoy the chase of one of Missouri’s small game animals,” said MDC Conservation Educator Rhys McCracken. “A walk in the woods in search of this plentiful game species also makes it an ideal hunt for young kids on their first endeavors. After a successful day afield, squirrel meat can be easily used in your favorite dish.”
This free workshop is open to new hunters ages 11-years and older. Hunters younger than 18-years old must be accompanied by an adult who is also registered for the program. To attend this workshop, participants must register at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/179300.
Participants should bring boots and earth-tone or camouflage clothing appropriate for the weather forecast. Some outerwear will be available upon request. Firearms, ammunition, and mentors will be provided for all participants at no cost. Participants are welcome to bring their own firearms and ammunition if they wish.
All participants must be properly licensed with a valid small game hunting permit. Participants younger than 16-years old do not need hunter education certification. Participants ages 16–64-years old must have completed hunter education certification or purchase an Apprentice Hunter Authorization. Participants ages 65-years and older do not need a small game hunting permit.
Find more information on permits at mdc.mo.gov/permits/hunting-permits.
Scheduled plans are subject to change according to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. To help ensure public health and safety, MDC asks all participants to observe current, local guidelines regarding physical distancing and masking. MDC encourages participants to bring and wear face coverings when appropriate.
For more information, contact Rhys McCracken at 573-815-7901, ext. 2866, or Rhys.McCracken@mdc.mo.gov.
