It’s that time of year when hunters across New York State begin preparing for the next big season. While whitetail deer season doesn’t begin until the fall, many hunters are already planning trips to hunt in other states or even Canada.

If you are planning an out-of-state hunt, there are some important rules you need to know before bringing your animal back into New York.

Why Chronic Wasting Disease Is a Major Concern

One of the biggest concerns for wildlife biologists and managers is the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). The disease poses a serious threat to whitetail deer, moose, and other members of the deer family across North America.

Related: The “Freaky Deer” That is Wandering Western New York

Protecting healthy wildlife populations is a top priority for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Because of that, there are strict regulations about transporting harvested animals into the state.

Rules For Bringing Deer Into New York State

Hunters who harvest a deer, moose, or caribou outside of New York cannot simply bring the entire carcass home. The DEC provides detailed guidelines about what parts are allowed to be transported back into the state and how the animal must be processed before crossing state lines.

“New York has established regulations to prevent the introduction of CWD by out of state hunters. These regulations restrict the importation of carcasses and high-risk carcass parts from CWD-susceptible deer species harvested from anywhere outside of New York”.

According to the DEC, animals harvested in other states or countries must be properly processed before being transported into New York. The agency outlines which parts are allowed to cross state lines and which parts must remain where the animal was harvested. These rules are designed to help prevent the spread of diseases like chronic wasting disease
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How CWD Can Impact Deer Populations

While some hunters occasionally report seeing deer with unusual behavior or strange growths, chronic wasting disease is a much more serious issue. The disease attacks the brain and nervous system and can devastate entire deer populations if it spreads.

In 2024, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation reported a case of CWD detected in Region 6 of New York. Officials shared additional information about the case and continue monitoring the state’s deer herd closely.

Why Feeding Deer Can Actually Be Harmful

For those who are not hunters but enjoy seeing deer in their yards, wildlife officials warn against feeding them. While it may seem helpful, feeding deer can actually do more harm than good and is against New York State law!

When deer gather in large groups around food piles left by humans, diseases can spread quickly from animal to animal. Wildlife experts recommend allowing deer to rely on their natural food sources instead.

“NYS Codes, Rules and Regulations Part 186 further prohibits all intentional feeding of wild deer or moose except for several specific circumstances. Incidental feeding such as attraction of deer or moose to a birdfeeder will only be considered a violation if DEC has previously issued a written warning to the person responsible”.

Despite a cold winter, many hunters and outdoor observers say deer appear to be in relatively good shape across parts of New York. The coming spring will be an important time as fawns are born and predators such as coyotes continue to impact local deer populations.

Planning Ahead For Fall Hunting Trips

This time of year is also when many hunters begin planning fall trips and booking guided hunts. Here in Western New York, the March outdoor sport and travel expo is a great opportunity to meet outfitters and guides who specialize in out-of-state hunts.

Many of these guides are familiar with New York’s regulations and can help hunters properly prepare an animal for transport back into the state.

Waiting For The Fall Deer Season

For now, hunters will have to wait until the fall to get back into the deer woods. In the meantime, many are already spending time outdoors shed hunting.

If you are heading out to look for antlers this spring, good luck. Finding sheds can be a challenge. Most of the sheds I have found over the years were simply stumbled upon while hiking rather than intentionally searching for them.

New York State Whitetail Deer Trail Cam Photos

Gallery Credit: Clay Moden