Hunting Trapping Guide

8/8/24, 11:22 AM print - 2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Guide
2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Guide
LEFT HEADER RIGHT HEADER
Minister’s Message
https://www.gov.nl.ca/hunting-trapping-guide/2024-25/print/ 1/154
As Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, I am pleased

to share the 2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Guide with you.
Hunting and trapping are entrenched in our traditional values
of respecting and interacting with the land. These activities
continue to play an essential role in Newfoundland and
Labrador’s past, present and future, and offer increased food
security, recreational benefits, and significant economic
opportunities to the people of our province.
I’m happy to note that we are marking an improvement in

American Marten (Island of Newfoundland Population)
numbers by down listing its status from Threatened to
Vulnerable under the provincial Endangered Species Act.
Newfoundland Marten is one of only 14 mammal species native
to the island of Newfoundland. First considered endangered in
1996, recovery programs in place since the 1990s have supported population growth, resulting in
downlisting from Endangered to Threatened in 2007.
With a current population estimate of 2,500 to 2,800 mature animals, Newfoundland Marten numbers
have steadily improved. This reflects years of cooperation and hard work from the Newfoundland Marten
Recovery Team, trappers and hunters, Indigenous Governments and Organizations, industry,
environmental organizations, and other interested parties. I thank them all for their dedication to
conserving biodiversity and taking action to help ensure no species becomes extinct or extirpated in
Newfoundland and Labrador. In light of this change of status the department will work collaboratively
with stakeholders to develop a management strategy for marten in the future.
Another good news story relates to an example of outstanding wildlife management planning. In 2019, the
department re-established an offshore caribou herd on the Grey Islands on the Great Northern Peninsula.
This initiative aimed to safeguard the long-term existence of caribou populations and provide new hunting
opportunities as the herd grows. I am pleased to report that due to positive results, a small caribou quota
will be re-established for this area in 2024-25.
For new hunters and youth enrolling in firearm safety and hunter and trapper education programs, we will
continue to support various outreach opportunities involving non-government organizations, local rod
and gun clubs, and volunteers to encourage and promote safe and responsible outdoor activities, and the
conservation and stewardship of our valuable wildlife resources.
While the dedication of wildlife research and management staff, including our resource enforcement and
regional services teams is essential to the sustainable management of wildlife and biodiversity,
conservation is a shared responsibility. We rely heavily on input from licensed hunters and trappers to
provide harvest information through licence returns, and submission of moose and caribou jawbones,
black bear teeth and skulls, and canid skulls and carcasses. I encourage all hunters to share your harvest
information with our department this season.
I wish you all a safe and successful hunting and trapping season.
Sincerely,
Honourable Gerry Byrne

Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
Licence Fees
Licence Type Price (Cdn) Payment Methods/Restrictions
Moose Pay online.
Resident $52.00
Resident Senior $33.80
Non-Resident $502.00 Available through licenced outfitter only.
Woodland Caribou Pay online.

(Newfoundland)
Resident $52.00
Black Bear Pay online.
Resident Application $39.00
Resident Senior Application $25.35
Small Game/Coyote/Wolf All licences available at local vendors or contact

(Shooting Licence) a Government Service Center.
Resident $10.00
Non-Resident (Canadian-Citizen) $50.00
Non-Resident (Non-Canadian $100.00

Citizen)
Youth Small Game Snaring Only Free Youth under 16
Ptargmigan (Shooting Licence) All licences available at local vendors or contact

a Government Service Centers.
Resident $10.00
Non-Resident (Canadian-Citizen) $50.00
Non-Resident (Non-Canadian $100.00

Citizen)
Trapper Pay online.
General Licence $15.00
General Licence (Senior) $9.75
Beaver Trapline-Island $15.00
Beaver Trapline-Island (Senior) $9.75
Guide Pay online.
General Licence $15.00
Migratory Game Bird Permit Available at Canada Post Outlets or online:

https://www.permis-permits.ec.gc.ca/en/
Canadian Resident $17.00
Non-Canadian $17.00
NOTE:
1. Licences sold through vendor outlets and/or Government Service Centres are subject to an additional
$3.00 fee at the time of purchase.
2. All licence fees are non-refundable and subject to change.
3. Prices do not include HST.
4. Licence fees for seniors apply to those aged 65 and older.
5. If submitting cheque or money order please make payable to Newfoundland Exchequer Account.
New for 2024-25
Moose
For the island of Newfoundland a moose quota of 27,590 licenses has been established for the 2024-25
hunting season: these include 18,390 Either Sex, 8,740 Male Only, and 460 Not-For-Profit (NFP)
Licences. This represents an overall increase of 15 licences compared to 2023-24. Twenty-three moose
management areas (MMA) have had quota adjustments, the breakdown of changes by area is available in
the Island Moose Section.
The boundary description for MMA 45 has been amended to include the offshore island known as St. John
Island in the MMA. The corresponding adjustments will be included in the hunting area map that
accompanies a licence for that area.
In Labrador, there is an overall quota of 370 moose licences available for 2024-25. This represents an
overall quota increase of 5 licenses; the breakdown of changes by area is available in the Labrador Moose
Section.
Caribou
For the island of Newfoundland, a caribou quota of 596 licenses has been established for the 2024-25
hunting season: these include 337 Either Sex and 259 Male Only Licences. This represents an overall
increase of 21 licences compared to the 2023-24. The breakdown of changes by area is available in
the Island Caribou Section.
The results from earlier initiatives supporting the re-introduction of Newfoundland woodland caribou on
the Grey Islands (Bell Island and Groias Island) has provided new opportunities to re-establish quotas and
hunting opportunities for both areas, with a new licence quota of five either-sex resident licences and
three either-sex non-resident licences.
Advisory to Big Game Applicants
A number of moose and caribou management area surveys are being conducted during the winter of 2024
and may potentially influence quotas once the results are analyzed. Any changes to quotas will be
announced prior to the big game licence draw.
Big Game Applications Online Only
The big game licence application process for the resident moose/caribou draw is available as an online
service only. Applicants will be notified electronically via email when the online big game application
becomes available and when the big game draw is completed. Eligible hunters must have an online
account to log into the Department’s Wildlife Information Management System (WIMS) portal. For
further information about our online services, please contact the Wildlife Division at 709-637-2025/709-
729-2630 or by email at wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca. Include your name, NL Driver’s Licence/NL Photo ID
and telephone number.
Black Bear and Trapper Licence Applications Online Only
The licence application process for the resident black bear and resident trappers licences are now
available as an online service only. Eligible hunters and trappers must have an online account to log into
the Department’s Wildlife Information Management System (WIMS) portal. For further information
about our online services, please contact the Wildlife Division at 709-637-2025/709-729-2630 or by
email at wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca. Please include your name, NL Driver’s Licence/NL Photo ID and
telephone number in your email correspondence.
When applying and providing payment please allow 48 hours for payments to go through to avoid
purchase of multiple licences. If you are concerned about your payment going through please contact the
Wildlife Division through the means listed above.
Program for Hunters with a Disability
As part of the 2022-2026 Moose Management Plan, the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and
Agriculture acknowledged its commitment to improve access for persons with disabilities as well as
creating opportunities to help keep senior hunters involved in hunting to effectively manage moose
resources. The Department is continuing its review of current legislation, consulting with various
stakeholders and assessing newer licencing strategies with a goal of implementing new provisions in the
2025-26 hunting season.
Notice to Trappers
Breakaway Devices
Current best practices involving the use of breakaway devices being added to neck snares will become
mandatory on the island of Newfoundland starting in the 2025-26 season trapping terrestrial furbearers
such as lynx, fox, coyote and wolf. These measures are being implemented to reduce incidental captures
of moose and caribou. These measures are being announced now to provide trappers with ample
opportunity to modify existing snares or replace equipment as necessary. More information is available in
the Trapping Practices to Avoid Non-Target Species section.
Migratory Game Bird Hunting
Environment Climate Change Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service is currently considering regulatory
changes for Migratory Game Bird Hunting in Newfoundland and Labrador. The public consultation period
for these regulatory changes has concluded, and it is anticipated that the final regulations will be
published in the Canada Gazette, Part II in late spring 2024. For more information, please see, Proposals
to amend the Canadian Migratory Birds Regulations – 2024: consultation document, hunting seasons
2024-2025 and 2025-2026 – Canada.ca
General Information for All Hunters
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This guide is neither a legal document, nor a complete collection of current hunting
and trapping regulations or firearms laws. It is an abbreviated guide issued for the convenience of hunters
and trappers. The Wild Life Act and Regulations should be consulted for interpreting and applying the law.
Please contact your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture (FFA) office for more
information.
Application Deadlines
Resident Moose and Caribou and Not-for-Profit/Charitable Moose Applications
Applications must be received by the close of business on May 3, 2024. Applications must be
submitted online via the Wildlife Information Management System webpage. Eligible applicants who
require further assistance can call the Wildlife Division at: 709-637-2025 or 709-729-2630, or email:
wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca. Include your name, NL Driver’s Licence/NL Photo ID and telephone number.
Not-For-Profit/Charitable Moose applications are available as fillable PDF documents that include
FAQs and information on completing your application. Applications must be submitted by May 3,
2024 (4:30 pm NST).
Resident Black Bear
Applications and payments must be received by the dates indicated to ensure your licence is available
before the hunting season begins. To apply online, visit the Wildlife Information Management System.
Spring Season:
Labrador close of business (4:30 p.m NST) March 11, 2024
Island close of business (4:30 p.m NST) April 12, 2024
Fall Season: Island and Labrador close of business (4:30 p.m NST) June 28, 2024
Note: Applications received after these dates will be accepted but are not guaranteed to be processed
before the season opens.
New Applicants for the Big Game Licence Draw
To be eligible for the annual big game draw, new applicants must have completed the Canadian Firearms
Safety Course and Hunter Education Course, or transferred hunter certification credentials from another
jurisdiction on or before November 30 of the previous year. Outdoor Identification Card applications
must be accompanied by proof of completion of a recognized hunter training course.
Canadian Firearms Safety Course/Hunter Education (CFSC/HE) Course
Individuals wishing to hunt game with a firearm (including bows) in Newfoundland and Labrador are
required to complete the CFSC/HE Course. In person courses are offered through College of the North
Atlantic. Some exceptions may apply for those who have completed other recognized hunter training
programs in other North American provinces, territories or states.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Hunter Education course is also available online at: Official
Newfoundland Hunter Safety Course | HUNTERcourse.com New hunters must also complete the in-class
Canadian Firearms Safety Course (Non-Restricted).
Outdoor Identification Card (OIC)/Temporary Outdoor Identification

Cards (TOIC)
An OIC is issued to residents who have completed the CFSC/HE Course or have previously completed the
Hunter Capability Test or the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (in Newfoundland and Labrador only)
before April 1996. The OIC, along with the appropriate hunting licence must be in your possession while
hunting with firearms. The OIC is proof that a hunter has met the province’s requirements to hunt game
with a firearm.
A Temporary Outdoor Identification Card (TOIC) is issued to individuals who have just passed the
CFSC/HE course or those individuals who have lost their OIC.
Individuals who require a replacement OIC can visit the nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry
and Agriculture office for a TOIC and an application for a replacement OIC. Applications are also
available online at gov.nl.ca/
Problem Moose on Farms
Holders of a valid moose hunting licence may be authorized by a wildlife officer to assist farmers in
removing problem moose from farms. If you are interested in participating, please call a regional
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office. Licence holders will be contacted in the
order their calls are received. You may be called to a farm to either remove a moose shot by a wildlife
officer, or asked to hunt on the farm according to instructions from the conservation officer and
farmer.
Persons with disabilities not able to participate in the CFSC/HE Course or persons with disabilities
who are eligible to hunt big game and are registered for the Program for Hunters with a Disability may
become eligible to receive a problem moose from farms or moose that is euthanized by a conservation
officer. Priority access to this moose meat is managed by the regional or district Department of
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office where the problem moose occurs. Persons interested in
problem moose must be eligible for the Program for Hunters with a disability and hold a big game
license or provide a medical note from a doctor. For more information or to add your name to a
priority list, please contact your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office.
Not-for-Profit Moose Licences
A number of moose licences are available to registered not-for-profit (NFP) and charitable
organizations through the Wildlife Division. Organizations may utilize qualified resident hunters to
secure meat for charities and service groups that use it for fundraising purposes and food sharing
programs.
Successful applicants will also be automatically added to the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and
Agriculture Problem Moose on Farms list in their region and will be contacted directly when a
problem moose is identified in their chosen Management Area (possibly before the opening of the
regular big game season). NFP licence holders are strongly encouraged to make every effort to avail of
this program if contacted to do so.
Registered not-for-profit and charitable organizations must apply by close of business 4:30 p.m. May
3, 2024. Applications received after this date will not be considered. For applications, information
about the NFP, application guidelines, and additional information on completing your application, click
here.
Eligible applicants who did not receive a provincial NFP moose licence in the previous year will be
given priority in the NFP draw process.
NFP applicants are required to identify and only permit up to four eligible hunters to hunt to behalf of
the organization. Eligible hunters can only be identified on one NFP application per season. Names
cannot be added or changed after the application deadline date.
Additional NFP moose licences are also available through Parks Canada in Gros Morne National Park
and Terra Nova National Park. Contact Parks Canada for more information.
REMINDER – POSSESSION AND SALE OF GAME
Legislated restrictions on the possession, use and sale of game meat still apply to meat harvested
under Not-for-Profit Licences. For more information on appropriate use please refer to the big game
section of the Regulation Summary or contact the Wildlife Division at: 709-637-2025 or 709-729-
2630, or email: wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca.
Sharing the Harvest
Licences to donate wild game can be obtained from the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
. This action results from consultation with the Community Food Sharing Association – an umbrella
organization representing 54 registered food banks operating in the province. All registered food banks
are eligible for the special permit. Hunters may donate meat directly to participating food banks. All
donated moose and caribou must be processed at a government-licenced meat processing facility. Home
butchered or processed wild game is not considered acceptable for donation to food banks.
Registered food banks wishing to apply for a permit should contact Wildlife Division officials at: 709-637-
2025. For more information on receiving or donating, email wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca
How Do I Get A Licence?
Resident moose licences for Newfoundland and Labrador and resident caribou licences for the Island
of Newfoundland are only available through the Wildlife Division’s big game draw process.
Resident black bear licences for the Island of Newfoundland and Labrador are available through an
online application process. Apply online by logging on with your user name and password at
www.wildlife.gov.nl.ca.
Resident small game/coyote/wolf and ptargmigan licences are available at vendor outlets throughout
the province. Resident hunters must provide identification, such as a Newfoundland and Labrador
Driver’s Licence, to the vendor at the time of purchase.
Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permits are available through Canada Post Offices at local offices or
online at http://www.permis-permits.ec.gc.ca/ and are valid throughout Canada (additional hunting
licences may be required to hunt migratory game birds in other provinces).
Age Requirements
A person must be 12 years of age or older to hunt with a firearm for small game, migratory waterfowl and
coyotes. To hunt big game, a person must be 16 years of age by August 31 in the year for which the licence
is valid. Persons under 16 years of age may also purchase licences to take small game and furbearers by
snaring or trapping only. See Youth Hunting and Trapping Licences for more information.
Federal Firearms Regulations
In addition to the Wild Life Regulations, the Firearms Act and Regulations require licencing of all gun
owners. A firearms licence is also required to purchase ammunition.
Youth aged 12 to 17 may apply for a Minor’s Licence. For Information on Minor’s Possession Licence
applications call 1-800-731-4000 ext. 5013. For the purpose of hunting small game, coyotes and wolf
or migratory game birds with a firearm within Newfoundland and Labrador, hunters aged 12 to 15
may hunt with a firearm while under the immediate and direct supervision of a person who can
lawfully possess firearms (i.e. has a valid Possession Only Licence or Possession and Acquisition
Licence).
For more information about federal firearms regulations and licences/permits, please contact the
RCMP’s Canadian Firearms Program at 1-800-731-4000 or visit their website at: rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-
pcaf/index-eng.htm
Transportation of Firearms
A permit to transport firearms is required during a closed season or without a valid hunting licence.
Permits are available at local Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture offices.
Rod and Gun Clubs and firearm businesses (gunsmiths) may apply for annual firearms transport
permits by contacting the Wildlife Division at: 709-637-2025.
Online Services
Many of the services provided by the Wildlife Division, such as submitting big game applications and
payments, renewing licences, and submitting licence returns can be accessed online at
www.wildlife.gov.nl.ca provided you have your login identification and password. To request
information concerning your login identification and password, contact the Wildlife Division at: 709-
637-2025, 709-729-2630, or email wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca
Check out our website at www.gov.nl.ca/ffa for more information on hunting, trapping, angling and
guiding.
Residents
A resident of Newfoundland and Labrador is:
A Canadian citizen who has lived in this province for six consecutive months immediately preceding
their application for a licence;
A person, other than a Canadian citizen, who has lived in this province for 12 consecutive months
immediately preceding their application for a licence;
While stationed in the province, a member of the Canadian Forces or the Royal Canadian Mounted
Police (RCMP);
While stationed outside the province, a member of the Canadian Forces or the RCMP who was born in
the province; or
A person ordinarily a resident of the province who leaves to attend a recognized educational
institution and intends to return upon completion of studies at the institution concerned.
If your residency status has changed you must notify the Wildlife Division immediately. It is an offence
for nonresidents to apply for and receive a resident licence.
Note: Members of the Canadian Forces and RCMP are required to provide proof of their military/police
status to the Wildlife Division when filing an application for resident licences. An Outdoor Identification
Card may be requested to confirm their status from time-to-time during routine file maintenance.
Non-residents
A non-resident Canadian is a person who is a Canadian citizen but is not a resident of Newfoundland
and Labrador.
A non-resident alien is a person who is not a Canadian citizen.
General information and regulations found in this Guide are applicable to non-residents.
For the purposes of non-resident hunting in Newfoundland and Labrador it is required that
nonresidents meet equivalent standardized hunter education training requirements that is
satisfactory to the minister of FFA as per the Wild Life Regulations. Furthermore, while hunting, non-
resident hunters must carry a corresponding hunter education certificate, card or official government
document from a state, province/ territory, country or similar credentials that is provided from a
recognized service provider that states they have completed a hunter and firearm education training
course or program and must present this information immediately upon request of a wildlife officer.
Non-resident big game hunters are required to be accompanied by licenced guides. Guides are
supplied by licenced outfitters. Non-resident small game, coyote, wolf or waterfowl hunters do not
require guides.
Non-resident big game licences (bear, moose, caribou) are only available through licensed outfitters.
Non-resident small game/coyote/wolf shooting licences are available through vendor outlets.
Migratory game bird hunting permits are available through Canada Post Offices.
Hunters must declare all game entering the United States from Canada. American hunters should
obtain the necessary forms at U.S. Customs when leaving the United States.
Hunters must possess a game export permit to take game out of the province. Export permits are
available free of charge from all Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture offices and
licenced outfitters.
Non-resident black bear hunters may require a Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species (CITES) permit to transport black bear parts outside Canada.
Non-residents arriving at a Canada Customs port must declare all firearms. For further information,
contact the Canadian Firearms Program at: 1-800-731-4000 or by visiting: www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-
pcaf/index-eng.htm.
A non-resident cannot apply for a licence or priority pool advancement in the resident big game
licence draw.
For a list of outfitters and complete information on non-resident hunting, contact the Department of
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation by phone at: 1-800-563-6353 (inside North America) or 1-709-
729-2830 (outside North America), or by visiting:
www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/thingstodo/hunting.
Guide Licences
First-time applicants must include, along with their guide licence application and proof of Canadian
residency status, a valid emergency first aid certificate and proof of completion of a recognized
Firearms Safety/Hunter Education Course and boat safety course or equivalent. Alternatively,
applicants may include proof of completion of a recognized guide training program. Applicants must
be 18 years of age or older.
New guide applicants should expect a minimum of 10 business days for an application to be processed.
Applications received during the hunting or angling season will not be given additional priority. Those
wishing to receive a guide licence should submit their request well in advance of the season.
Applications are available online here or from the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
or Wildlife Division offices.
Renewal payments may be made online at: www.wildlife.gov.nl.ca or by contacting the Central
Cashier’s Office at: 729-3042 or P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL, A1B 4J6.
For more information, contact your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Office.
Replacement Licences
If your hunting licence and/or tags have been lost, damaged or stolen, you must get a replacement
licence and/or tags before you continue hunting.
Replacement big game licences and/or tags are available from any Department of Fisheries, Forestry
and Agriculture Regional or District Office or Wildlife Division office. Return any part of the original
licence and/or tags in your possession. An affidavit describing the circumstances of the loss must be
completed and signed by a Justice of the Peace, Commissioner for Oaths or Notary Public.
Replacement small game/coyote/wolf and ptarmigan shooting licences are available from the vendor
(at no cost) where you purchased your original licence. Keep your licence return and record the date
of purchase and the vendor’s name and address. An affidavit describing the circumstances of the loss
must be completed and signed by a Justice of the Peace, Commissioner for Oaths or Notary Public.
Bring these to the vendor and they will issue a replacement licence.
Samiajij Miawpukek Reserve (Conne River)
Hunters are advised that permission is required to access the Reserve. Contact the Miawpukek First
Nation at: 1-866-882-2470 or go to: www.mfngov.ca for more information.
Maps
Maps in this publication are prepared for reference only. The Wild Life Act and Regulations should be
consulted for all purposes of interpreting and applying the law. For detailed maps and legal boundary
descriptions visit: https://www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/public-education/wildlife/hunting/boundry/, or write to

the Wildlife Division, P.O. Box 2007, Corner Brook, NL A2H 7S1.
Maps are provided to big game licence holders and include physical boundary descriptions.
Marked Animals
Many big game animals and wolves have been ear-tagged and/or have had radio collars affixed to
them. Ear tags may be made of light plastic or metal. Radio collars are often white, black or bright
orange or yellow in colour. Because of the cost associated with animal capture and marking and the
value that these animals have in monitoring programs, hunters are asked not to harvest these animals.
However, hunters who harvest these animals must return the radio collar and lower jawbone (in the
case of a big game animal). A $50.00 reward will be offered for the return of radio collars.
For more information on marked wildlife, please contact the Wildlife Division.
Injured or Diseased Animals
Please report any observations of injured or diseased wildlife to the nearest Department of Fisheries,
Forestry and Agriculture office. If a big game animal harvested by you appears to be diseased or was
previously injured, the entire carcass must be brought to a local Department of Fisheries, Forestry and
Agriculture office for inspection. In most cases, it is only possible to determine that an animal has a serious
disease or infection by examining the entire carcass. Hunters are advised that a replacement licence may
only be issued if a big game animal is found to be unfit for consumption because of disease or previous
injury and the entire carcass has been submitted for disposal.
Health Canada Advisories
Health Canada advises that some big game animals treated with immobilizing drugs may be unsuitable
for human consumption. All big game animals captured using immobilizing drugs have been marked
with a radio collar or ear tag or both. If you happen to harvest a collared or ear-tagged animal, contact
the Wildlife Division immediately at: 637-2398 for advice on the suitability for consumption.
The Wildlife Division, after consultation with Health Canada, recommends the public not eat the liver
or kidneys of moose or caribou. The cadmium contained in one meal of either liver or kidney,
combined with a person’s normal consumption of cadmium in other foods, would likely be more than
the weekly allowable intake of cadmium as recommended by the World Health Organization.
Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve
Within the national park reserve boundary, small game, waterfowl hunting and fur-bearer trapping by
eligible persons will continue to be permitted under the authority of a valid provincial licence. To
determine eligibility and obtain more information concerning other activities inside the national park
reserve boundary, please consult the Parks Canada website at: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nl/mealy or
contact the Parks Canada office in Happy Valley Goose Bay at: (709) 896-2394 or email:
pc.mealys.pc@canada.ca.
Big Game Licence Application and Draw Process
Eligibility
To be considered eligible for the 2024 big game licence draw, you must:
be a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador;

be at least 16 years of age by August 31, 2024;
have a Hunter Certificate Number; and
have completed the Firearms Safety/Hunter Education Course or applied for an Outdoor
Identification Card before November 30, 2023.
Name Changes
Individuals requiring name changes to remain current in the Wildlife Management Information System
must do so in writing and provide the applicable documentation:
for marriage, a copy of marriage certificate and driver’s licence or photo identification which matches
the name on the marriage certificate;
for divorce, a copy of birth certificate and driver’s licence or photo identification which matches the
name on the birth certificate; and
for any other reasons, a copy of change of name document and driver’s licence or photo identification.
This notification can be submitted to the Wildlife Division offices in Corner Brook or St. John’s or emailed
to wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca
Address Changes
The Wildlife Division must be notified in writing of any address changes to ensure you continue to receive
your big game licence. This notification can be submitted to the Wildlife Division offices in Corner Brook
or St. John’s or emailed to wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca You may also change your address in your online
Wildlife Information Management account at www.wildlife.gov.nl.ca
Applications
Applications are to be submitted online via the Wildlife Information Management System. Eligible
applicants who require further assistance can call: 709-637-2025 or 709-729-2630, or
email: wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca. Include your name, NL Driver’s Licence/NL Photo ID and telephone
number.
If you do not want a licence but wish to advance in the priority pools, indicate ‘no – advance priority
pool only’ in the section asking “Do you want to enter the draw for a licence?”.
If you wish to have a licence, you must indicate ‘yes’ in the section asking if you want the application to
enter the draw for a licence and the types of licences you are willing to accept (either-sex, male-only or
calf). The more types that you are willing to accept, the greater your chances of receiving a licence.
You must also indicate the areas for which you are willing to receive a licence.
Priority Pool Status
To advance through the priority pools you must submit an application each year by the deadline date. If a
hunter does not submit an application for three consecutive years, their file will be identified as inactive
and their priority pool will be reset to Pool 8.
Licence Draw
The draw is based on a ‘priority pool’ system and applications are ranked based on participation and/or
success in previous draws. There are nine pools. Pool 1 has the highest priority and Pool 9 has the
lowest.
This system gives applicants who have been in the draw the longest without receiving a licence the
best possible chance of receiving one. Note that being in Pool 1 does not guarantee you a licence.
The draw is computerized and begins with Pool 1 co-applicant applications, followed by Pool 1
individual applications, followed by Pool 2 co-applicant applications and so on. Co-applicant
applications receive preference to give as many hunters as possible an opportunity to hunt with the
licences available.
The draw also begins with the first area of choice on each application and goes through each area
listed until a licence is awarded or the choice of areas runs out.
In each area, either-sex licences are awarded first, followed by female-only or calf (if available) and
male-only or calf.
Chances of receiving a licence are greater for co-applicant applications and those who list additional
areas. Note that where two applicants on a co-applicant application have different rankings, the
application is assigned to the lower pool. For example, if the applicants have a Pool 3 and Pool 5
ranking, the application goes in Pool 5.
Youth Applicants: Youth applicants who turn 16 by August 31 are eligible to apply for a moose/caribou
licence, and are automatically placed in Pool 5. A co-applicant interested entering the draw with a
youth applicant may also apply, and shall be entered as Pool 5 Party regardless of the co-applicant’s
pool standing. If a youth and co-applicant are successful in the draw their priority status will return to
Pool 8 in the following year. If a licence is not drawn, only the youth would advance to Pool 4 in the
following year and the co-applicant would advance from their current priority pool status. The
opportunity to enter the draw with a youth applicant in the same pool only applies while the youth is
16 and 17 years of age and if a licence was not awarded to the youth applicant in the previous draw.
Persons 18 years of age who are new applicants in the big game licence draw start off in Pool 8.
Priority Pool Ranking
These rankings are based on a hunter who submits an application each year:
Pool 1: Hunters who submitted an application but did not receive a licence in the previous seven years.
Pool 2: Hunters who submitted an application but did not receive a licence in the previous six years.
Pool 3: Hunters who submitted an application but did not receive a licence in the previous five years.
Pool 4: Hunters who submitted an application but did not receive a licence in the previous four years.
Pool 5: Hunters who submitted an application but did not receive a licence in the previous three years,
and new youth applicants.
Pool 6: Hunters who submitted an application but did not receive a licence in the previous two years.
Pool 7: Hunters who submitted an application but did not receive a licence in the previous year.
Pool 8: New adult applicants and hunters who held a party licence in the previous year.
Pool 9: Hunters who held an individual licence in the previous year.
Reasons for Rejected Applications
Conviction on file: individuals convicted for a big game offence under the Wild Life Act and
Regulations are not eligible to participate in the application/draw process for five years.
Firearms prohibition: individuals prohibited by the Court from possessing a firearm are not eligible to
participate in the application/draw process until the prohibition ends. It is an offence to do so
knowingly.
Licence Payments
Payments for moose and caribou licences must be received by June 30, 2024 in order to guarantee
receipt of the licence and tags before the start of the hunting season.
Payments will be accepted after the deadline date, however there may be delays in receiving your
licence and tags.
Payments are not accepted at Wildlife Division offices. Payments are accepted through your Wildlife
Information Management Account, via mail at Central Cashier’s Office, P.O. Box 8770, St. John’s, NL,
A1B 4J6 or via telephone at 709-729-3042. If paying by mail or telephone you must include your
name, NL Driver’s Licence/NL Photo Id number and your telephone number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Once I file my big game application online, how do I know it was received and/or can I view it
immediately to check for correct information?
Once you successfully complete your application you will receive a confirmation page. Please print or save
the confirmation message for your records as it will be required for any future inquiries on your
application with the Wildlife Division. Please print or save the confirmation page. It is strongly suggested
you double check to ensure your application is received and all application data is accurate. You can view
your application information by selecting the Applications/Returns menu and then click on the application
from the list.
Can I make changes to my big game application once it has been filed online?
Yes. You can change your application information up to the deadline date. After that date no online
changes will be permitted, but you will be able to view the details of your application.
How do I check for my big game draw results?
Once the big game draw is completed login to your online Wildlife Information Management account,
click on the Applications/Returns menu then click on your Moose/Caribou application for the current
year. Your big game draw results will be displayed.
2023 Resident Big Game Draw Results
ANALYSIS OF 2023 LICENCE DRAW BY AREA CHOICE
The tables below identify the lowest pool that Either Sex (ES) or Male Only (MO) licences were awarded in
the 2023 resident big game licence draw and can be used as guide in selecting your area(s) for the 2024
draw. As an example, if you are in Pool 6, you should only consider the area(s) that licences were awarded
in Pool 6 Individual (I) or Pool 6 Party (P) in last year’s draw. You may also consider listing an area(s) that
have gone to Pool 7 to 9 to further increase your chances but remember to only apply for areas where you
are prepared to hunt. Please note that the 2023 results are for reference purposes only and do not
necessarily guarantee your chances of receiving a licence in the 2024 draw.
2023 ISLAND OF NEWFOUNDLAND (MOOSE)
Moose Management Area Area Number of Lowest Lowest Pool 2023-24

(MMA) Applications Pool Male-Only Resident
Naming Area Either-Sex Licence Quota
Licence
St. Anthony 1 1499 7I 9I 563
Portland Creek 2 1933 8P 8P 876
Cow Head-St. Paul’s Enclave 2A 176 8I – 30
Sally’s Cove Enclave 2B 113 9I – 20
Gros Morne National Park 2E 861 9I – 500
Harbour Deep 3 1167 9I – 793
Taylor’s Brook 4 2978 6I 7I 418
Trout River 5 3454 7P 8P 1112
Rocky Harbour Enclave 5A 214 7I – 30
Corner Brook 6 4599 7P 8P 1474
South Brook 7 2896 7P 8P 769
St. Georges 8 2227 8P 8P 794
Anguille Mountains 9 940 8P 9I 335
Port aux Basques 10 1664 7I 8P 654
Dashwoods 11 962 8P 9I 331
Buchans 12 654 7I 8P 190
Gaff Topsails 13 1472 5I 6I 160
Baie Verte 14 3102 6I 7I 1045
Twin Lakes 15 3775 6P 7I 1033
Sandy Badger 16 1362 4I 7P 135
Millertown 17 1508 6I 7I 420
Granite Lake 18 682 8P 9I 250
Grey River West 19 630 8P 9I 307
Round Pond 20 486 5I 6I 60
Rattling Brook 21 1723 5P 6P 134
Lewisporte 22 3919 4I 6I 688
Bonavista North 23 3821 3I 5I 576
North West Gander 24 1273 4P 6I 112
Bay D’Espoir 25 1643 5I 6I 358
Jubilee Lake 26 640 8I – 363
Terra Nova 27 1298 4I 6I 138
Black River 28 3336 4I 5I 268
Terra Nova National Park 28A 215 6I – 25
Bonavista Peninsula 29 3361 4I 6I 750
Burin Peninsula Knee 30 2012 5I 6I 550
Placentia 31 2090 5I – 250
Cape Shore 32 1581 6I 6I 325
Salmonier 33 2750 5I 325
Bay de Verde 34 3222 3I 5I 500
St. John’s 35 2713 5I 6I 375
Southern Shore 36 3966 6I 7P 1100
Grey River East 37 234 9I – 242
Burin Peninsula Foot 38 1518 4I 6I 300
Cloud River 39 522 9I – 330
Cloud River 39A 78 9I – 67
Conche 40 1951 8P 9I 981
Sheffield Lake 41 1329 6I 7I 213
Gambo 42 1477 3I 5I 56
Port au Port 43 461 7I – 100
Bellevue 44 879 5I 6I 100
Ten Mile Lake 45 2197 8P 8I 820
Random Island 47 281 4I 7I 40
Avalon MRZ 100 1681 7I – 600
Central MRZ 101 749 7P – 200
2023 LABRADOR (MOOSE)
Moose Management Area Area Number of Lowest Lowest Pool 2023-24

(MMA) Applications Pool Male-Only Resident
Licence
Wabush 48 120 1I – 5
Lower Mecatina 49 16 9I – 10
Natashquan 50 8 8I – 5
Baikie Lake 51 89 5I – 15
Grand River 52 127 6I – 30
Muskrat Falls 53 381 5I – 45
Grand Lake 54 99 8P – 35
Paradise River 57 99 7I – 30
Alexis River 58 285 4I – 35
Upper Kenamu 59 72 8P – 15
Upper Mecatina 60 9 9I – 10
Traverspine 84 210 5I – 25
Snegamook Lake 85 14 9I – 10
St. Augustin 86 27 7I – 5
Eagle Plateau 87 73 7I – 10
Mokami 90 39 7I – 5
Straits 93 247 2I – 15
Atikonak 94 46 7I – 20
Churchill Falls North 95 63 6I – 10
Shallow Lake 96 39 6I – 5
2023 ISLAND OF NEWFOUNDLAND (CARIBOU)
Caribou Management Area Area Number of Lowest Lowest Pool 2023-24

(CMA) Applications Pool Male-Only Resident
Licence
LaPoile 61 459 6P – 28
Buchans 62 312 6I – 38
Middle Ridge 64 1184 5I 5I 168
Gaff Topsails 66 277 6I 5I 16
Pot Hill 67 226 6P 6I 16
Mount Peyton 68 164 5I – 10
Merasheen Island 70 72 7I – 25
Fogo Island 72 115 6I – 25
St. Anthony 76 452 3I – 19
Cape Shore 77 119 6I – 10
Hampden Downs 78 77 6I – 2
Aides Lake 79 84 5I – 2
Jawbone/Tooth Collection Program
Moose/Caribou Jawbone Collection Program

Successful big game hunters will be required to submit the lower jawbone of a moose or caribou that has
been harvested under their licence. A jawbone tag will be included in your big game licence package.
Please indicate the sex of the animal you have harvested on the tag. Jawbone drop boxes will be
established in 48 locations throughout the province. To view all locations on a map, click here.
Wear aging estimates age based on the visible wear

of the molar teeth. Cementum age interpretation
involves counting the layers of bony material
deposited each year on the root of the tooth. These
layers appear like rings on a tree as depicted below.
Incisor teeth, which are extracted from the lower
jawbone and analyzed, give us an accurate age.
Knowing the age structure of animals can help
determine the health and status of the population.
For example, hunters often harvest yearling and two-
year old moose, while few calves and old animals are
harvested. Other than calves, the age distribution is
assumed to resemble the age of the moose Cementum age is read by counting the layers
population. If there are many young and prime of growth from each year.
breeding animals present, the population is probably
increasing. If there are many older animals, it is likely
that birth rates are low and the population is declining.
When you submit your jawbones, please keep the following in mind:
A properly cleaned jawbone is important for

getting accurate measurements.
Remove as much skin and flesh as possible.

Keep in a well-ventilated, cool area.
Do not wrap in plastic to avoid the growth of
bacteria.
Firmly attach the jawbone tag before
submitting, and remember to punch out the
tab that indicates the sex of the animal
harvested.
Samples should not be mailed. A properly cleaned jawbone is important for
getting accurate measurements.
This photo is a moose jawbone received at the wildlife

laboratory during Fall 2021. The animal is a yearling
indicated by the tooth eruption pattern. The hunter has
also indicated that a male has been harvested by
punching out the correct tab on the jawbone tag. Please
punch out the sex of the animal you harvested.
Bear Premolar Collection Program

Please submit premolar teeth from your harvested black bears.
The Wildlife Division is requesting successful black bear hunters submit the upper premolar teeth from
harvested bears.
The information from the collection will help form management decisions, evaluate black bear
populations and hunting trends, and provide insight on the age structure and reproductive success of
bears in our province.
Similar to obtaining the age from moose and caribou, black bears are aged using cementum analysis by
microscope examination. The layers of cementum (bony material) deposited each year on the root of a
tooth, like rings in a tree, are counted. Additionally, for female bears reproductive success can also be
evaluated as a double band of cementum is laid down during cub years
How to submit premolar teeth?
Fill out all information on the Cooperating Black Bear Hunter Tooth Submission Form found with your
bear license. A printable copy can be found here.
Please send your completed sheet with teeth in the envelope provided with your licence to:
Wildlife Division Laboratory, Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, 120-132 Main
Street P.O. Box 280, Pasadena, NL.
Tape dry premolar teeth to the submission form and place in the envelope found with your black bear
license. Place the envelope in the mail.
Video instruction are available here.
Cooperating hunters will receive a “Cooperating Big Game Hunter” crest as well as an age report for
your harvested bear(s).
DO NOT SUBMIT BEAR SKULLS OR BEAR JAWBONES: PLEASE SUBMIT PREMOLAR TEETH ONLY AS
SKULLS WILL BE DISCARDED.
Please collect the upper premolar teeth (see pictures)
If you can’t find the upper premolars, collect the lower

jaw premolars
1) The premolar teeth we need are the very small teeth immediately behind the upper and lower canine
teeth (see pictures).
2) Extraction is easily done just after the bear has been harvested when the jaw is still pliable. Use a
screwdriver or knife blade to push the gum down and away from the tooth.
3) Gently loosen the tooth by slowly rocking back and forth. Pull the tooth out with pliers or pry it out
using the canine as a lever.
Be careful not to break the tooth off at the gum line, the whole tooth, including the root, is needed for age
interpretation.
4) If you break the root of an upper premolar or these teeth are gone or cannot be extracted, please try
the lower premolars located immediately behind the lower canine.
Please call the wildlife division laboratory at 709 686 5546 or email wildlifelab@gov.nl.ca for help if
required
Removing these teeth and cutting into the gum does not impact taxidermy work or your mount.
Results
Cooperating hunters from the 2022-23 Island Moose Season enabled the collection of the information
represented in this graph. The oldest moose was interpreted at 19 years old. The average age was
estimated at 3.01 years. This information is taken from extracted and analyzed moose jawbone teeth.
The greater the participation in these programs the more accurate estimates become. In 2022-23 island
return rates for moose and caribou jawbones were 20% and 28%, respectively. Our goal is 30% or higher,
increased cooperation will help better manage.
2022-23 Insular NL Moose Cementum Age
Cooperating Big Game Hunter Crests
Hunters that submit a lower jawbone from a harvested big game animal will receive a cooperating big
game hunter crest as a token of appreciation (partner licences will receive two crests). The efforts of
hunters to supply data through jawbone submissions are essential to establish the health and status of
moose and caribou populations throughout the province. Thanks to the hunting public, age and growth
records in the provincial jawbone database represent one of the largest datasets known among North
American wildlife management agencies, amassing over 173,000 entries.
Hunting Code of Ethics
Safe
Positively identify your target before you

shoot.
Shoot only at appropriate targets or legal
game.
Always practice safe gun handling.
Practice shooting skills and be sure your
rifle or bow is properly sighted in.
Pattern your shotgun and know how it
shoots.
Avoid hunting from roads.
It is punishable by law to store or transport
a loaded firearm on any vehicle including
ATV, snowmobile or aircraft.
Knowledgable
Familiarize yourself with provincial and

federal regulations.
Know the effective range of your firearm or
bow.
Teach others to become ethical hunters and
to care for the countryside in which they hunt.
Get to know and support local hunting and conservation organizations.
Educate yourself on issues related to hunting, wildlife management and conservation that are
important to you and share your opinions.
Responsible
Act responsibly to avoid creating a negative image for hunters and firearm users.
Only harvest the amount of game that you can use.
Ensure that every effort is made to retrieve wounded game.
Complete licence returns and participate in surveys.
Access private property only with the landowner’s permission.
Respect outdoor users including other hunters, hikers, berry-pickers and cabin owners.
Report illegal hunting and trapping activity.
Hunter Image and Responsibilities
Hunter Image
Hunter image and how the public view hunters’ activities is important. Here are some of the things that
hunters should do to keep a positive image and foster a constructive relationship with the public:
Properly dispose of game animal parts.

Discarding game heads, hides, bones and other parts in a discrete manner out of public view is a
responsible thing to do.
Disposed material will attract pests and predators.
Offal (organs, waste materials, etc) can be unsightly and unpleasant as it decomposes and
shouldn’t be left along roads or around cabins or properties.
Be careful with your garbage.

Do not litter, and consider picking up litter you find.
Clear up camp sites and areas you spend time in and leave them as naturally as possible.
Clear up bear sites regularly so that garbage doesn’t blow around or get left in the woods.
Be considerate with your placement of traps and snares, and make use of selective harvest
techniques.
Be conscious of other resource users like hikers, mountain bikers and others that use trail systems.
Avoid residential areas with pets where possible and/or use selective harvest equipment or
methods.
More information can be found here.
Hunter Responsibilities
Wildlife management is the use of ecological principles to maintain and manage wildlife populations
based on the wise use or conservation of the wildlife resource and involves balancing people, wildlife and
habitat. Management goals for game species are to allow for continued consumptive use while
distributing hunting pressure more evenly, and keeping populations in balance with available habitat.
Hunters play a crucial role in wildlife management and their contributions are vital to understanding
trends and changes. Some of the valuable input from hunters includes:
Licence Returns
Completed licence returns provide information on many of the factors that are considered when
seasons and quotas are adjusted.
Information on hunter success, effort and locations help determine trends and are integral to
game management and planning.
Submission of Biological Samples
The submission of samples such as moose and caribou jawbones, coyote carcasses and black bear
teeth allow wildlife managers to look at general population dynamics and specific localized factors.
Biological samples are used in conjunction with licence return data to build better understanding
of wildlife populations.
Drop boxes are available throughout the province.
Reporting of Marks and Collars

When animals are marked with tags or collars they are usually a part of a study and have
information that is important to managers.
If you see marked animals consider not harvesting them as the study may still be collecting
information and they may have been immobilized and not recommended for consumption.
If you do harvest a marked animal please report it, more information can be found here.
Participation in Programs
Surveys, consultations, and voluntary programs for collection of information and biological
samples occur periodically and depend on cooperation of hunters and trappers to collect
information, recent moose consultations for example.
When asked to participate please consider your inputs and get involved.
Take care to preserve samples for collection and take notes to be sure you have a clear record of
your information.
Canadian Firearms Safety and Hunter Education

Course
In Newfoundland and Labrador, a person must pass both the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) and
the Hunter Education (HE) Course to become eligible to apply for resident hunting licences and to hunt
game with a firearm. Participants may take these courses starting at age 12 with parental consent.
Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC)
The Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) teaches participants the basics of firearms safety and the
laws related to firearms storage, handling and transportation. These are basic skills that every hunter,
trapper, recreational shooter or gun collector should know. This course consists of one day of classroom
instruction followed by a written and practical test. By successfully completing the CFSC a person is
eligible to apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) to obtain non-restricted firearms.
Regulations under the Firearms Act require individuals to obtain a PAL to possess and acquire firearms.
Applications for firearms licences are issued by the Canadian Firearms Program- Royal Canadian
Mounted Police (CFP-RCMP).
Minors Under 18
Conditions exist under the Firearms Act to allow minors less than 18 years of age to obtain a Minor’s
Possession Licence. Instead of obtaining a Minor’s Possession Licence, a minor may use firearms while
under the immediate and direct supervision of a fully licensed adult.
For further information about minors licensing or to obtain a firearms licence application, contact the CFP
at 1.800.731.4000 or online at www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp
Hunter Education Course
The Hunter Education Course teaches participants basic concepts of wildlife conservation and
management, hunting laws, hunter ethics and responsibility, outdoor safety and survival techniques and
other skills used for hunting. The duration of this course is 6.5 hours followed by a written exam. By
completing the Hunter Education Course, in addition to the CFSC, participants meet the requirement to
obtain provincial resident licences to hunt with a firearm or bow.
Other recognized hunter education training courses may also be accepted for new residents moving into
the province. Contact the Wildlife Division at 709.637.2025 for more information or visit us online at
https://www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/
Qualified resident hunters in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive an Outdoor Identification Card
(OIC) from the Wildlife Division. Hunters must carry their OIC, along with the appropriate hunting
licence, while hunting with a firearm. Hunters travelling to other parts of Canada should carry their OIC as
proof of completing Hunter Education training requirements.
Register for an in-Class Courses at a College of the North Atlantic Campus
To register for an in-class CFSC or HE Course, visit: https://www.cna.nl.ca/programs-courses/Continuing-

Education.aspx to get information on campus contacts & locations/dates for training or call: Toll Free 1-
888-982-2268.
NEW – Register for the Online Hunter Education Course
The hunter education component can also be completed online.
Participants who complete the online Hunter Education Course must still complete the in class Canadian
Firearms Safety Course to become hunter certified and eligible for resident hunting licences in
Newfoundland and Labrador.
Course Fees
Hunter Education Online Course $59
Canadian Firearms Safety Classroom Course (CFSC) $91
Hunter Education Classroom Course (HE) $59
CFSC + HE Combined Classroom Course $150
Minors Canadian Firearms Safety Classroom Course $53
Minors Hunter Education Classroom Course $15
Minors CFSC+HE Classroom Course $68
All fees are subject to HST
Youth Hunting and Trapping Licences
Beginning at age 12 a youth may hold a licence to shoot small game, fur-bearing animals, and coyotes.
Youth may hold a licence to shoot big game beginning at 16.
The regulations require youth to have the consent of a parent or person who has custody of the youth
to purchase a licence.
Where required, a youth must also be accompanied by a Designated Adult while hunting, taking or
killing animals by shooting.
Small Game/Coyote/Wolf and Waterfowl Shooting Licences
Youth at age 12 and under 16 may be issued a licence to shoot small game, coyotes, wolves, and wild birds
permitted to be harvested under the authority of a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit during an open
season. Requirements include:
A licence to shoot small game, coyotes and wolf shall not be issued to a youth age 12 and under 16
without written consent of a parent or person who has custody of the youth and must be presented to
local vendor outlets at the time of purchase.
The consent must be carried by the youth or the designated adult while using firearms to hunt small
game, wolves, or coyotes, or while hunting under the authority of a Migratory Game Bird Hunting
Permit.
Youth must be accompanied by a Designated Adult when operating a shooting licence.
A Designated Adult who is not the parent or person who has custody of the youth must be designated
in writing.
Youth must complete required hunter and firearms training courses and trapper education courses.
Youth and the Designated Adult must also possess an Outdoor Identification Card or equivalent
document (e.g. Hunter Certification Card from another jurisdiction).
Small Game Licences for snaring only are available to youth under 16 years of age shall be marked “not
valid for shooting”.
Big Game Licences
Youth at age 16 and under 18 may obtain a licence to shoot big game during an open season.
Requirements include:
Big game licence applications processed by the Wildlife Division involve conditions to provide a
Consent Form before a licence can be issued to a Youth. These forms are normally provided at the
time that youth completes the Canadian Firearms Safety/Hunter Education course. Therefore,
possession of the licence itself, once issued, acts as implied consent.
Youth must carry written Consent Form signed by a parent or person who has custody of the youth for
big game licences issued through a vendor (e.g. Labrador Black Bear or non-resident big game licence
sold by an outfitter).
Youth must be accompanied by a Designated Adult to hunt big game.
A Designated Adult who is not the parent or person who has custody of the youth must be designated
in writing.
Youth must complete required hunter and firearms training courses.
Big Game Licence Applications for moose/caribou issued through the draw process may be processed
using the online WIMS for youth who turn age 16 before August 31 and once they complete required
hunter and firearm training courses.
If not already received by the Wildlife Division, a Consent Form must on file or be provided a parent or
person who has custody of youth age 16 and under 18 be provided before submitting a big game
licence application online. Consent Forms may be faxed to (709)637-2099 or emailed to
wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca
Licence applications for black bear may be obtained up until the close of the hunting season.
document (e.g. Hunter Certification Card from another jurisdiction) while hunting.
General Trapper Licence
A licence to shoot fur bearing animals shall not be issued to a youth age 12 and under 16 without
written consent of a parent or person who has custody of the youth. Youth under age 12 and youth
that are not permitted to use a firearm for the purposes of dispatching fur bearing animals are not
required to obtain consent to purchase a General Trapper Licence.
A written consent of parent or person who has custody of the youth age 12 and under 16 must be
provided when submitting a General Trapper Licence application by mail. Online applications cannot
be processed unless a Consent Form is on file with the Wildlife Division. Consent Forms may be faxed
to (709)637-2099 or emailed to wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca
General trapper licence applications processed by the Wildlife Division involve conditions to provide
the Consent Form before a licence can be issued to a Youth. Therefore, possession of the General
Trapper Licence itself, once issued, acts as implied consent.
General Trapper Licence Applications may be processed up until the close of the trapping seasons.
document (e.g. Hunter Certification Card from another jurisdiction) while trapping.
What has not changed?
Youth age 16 and under 18 may continue to be issued a licence to shoot small game, coyote, wolves,
fur bearing animals and wild birds permitted to be harvested under the authority of a Migratory Game
Bird Permit during the open season without consent to purchase a licence.
Youth age 16 and under 18 may obtain their own Federal Minor’s Firearm Possession Licence to use
firearms.
A youth at 16 and 17 who holds a valid small game, coyote, wolves, trapping licence or Migratory
Game Bird Hunting Permit noted in this category and who does not possess a Minor’s Firearms
Possession Licence is required to be accompanied and supervised by a fully licenced adult.
Designated Adult
A Designated Adult must meet the following criteria:
is a person who is over the age of 18;

is not prohibited from carrying, transporting, possessing or using a firearm or from being a designated
adult; and
is eligible for the same type of licence under which the youth is hunting, taking or killing an animal by
shooting.
While accompanying the youth, a Designated Adult shall:
remain at arm’s length of the youth and be able to take control of the firearm if necessary;
not accompany and supervise more than two youths at one time;
carry evidence of his or her eligibility to hold the same type of licence as the youth (e.g. possess an
Outdoor Identification Card or similar document); and
if not the parent or person who has custody of the youth, provide a designation in writing signed by a
parent or person who has custody of the youth (carried by the youth or Designated Adult).
Injured Animals
A Designated Adult may shoot or dispatch an animal that has been injured by a youth for the purposes
of assisting the youth and shall keep the youth in sight at all times.
A Designated Adult is not required to keep the youth in sight at all times where the Designated Adult
is pursuing an animal that has been injured by the youth.
With respect to Migratory Game Birds, the Designated Adult would also be required to hold a valid
Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit in addition to the Outdoor Identification Card or similar
document.
Youth Consent/ Designated Adult Forms
PDF Copy of Youth Consent/Designated Adult Form

For more information or to obtain a copy of a Consent/Designate Adult Form, contact your nearest
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Office or email wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca or write
your own Youth Consent/Designated Adult Form that uses the same language as presented in the pdf
from.
Program for Hunters/Anglers with a Disability

(PHAD)
Program for Hunters/Anglers with a Disability (PHAD)
All first time hunters, including those hunters who have not previously completed a hunter training
course or program recognized by the Minister, including a person who has a disability affecting
hunting activities, shall, before becoming eligible for a big game licence draw, complete the Canadian
Firearm Safety and Hunter Education Course, or similar hunter training course or program in another
jurisdiction that is recognized by the Minister.
For the purposes of the Wild Life Regulations, a person who is legally blind may be exempted from the
standard practical testing in the Canadian Firearm Safety and Hunter Education Course which
requires vision to perform if he or she provides a certificate from a health care provider certifying that
he or she is legally blind.
A person who is legally blind who completes the Canadian Firearms Safety and Hunter Education
Course may apply for and receive a big game licence but is not entitled to possess or use a firearm for
the purpose of hunting.
A hunter with a disability who receives a big game licence, shall in the case of person who is legally
blind, and may in the case of a person with a disability affecting hunting, specify one designated hunter
to shoot and retrieve the type and sex of big game animal named on the licence of the hunter with a
disability provided that;
Persons with disabilities not able to participate in the CFSC/HE Course or in the hunt itself may apply
to become eligible to receive a problem moose from farms or other areas that has been euthanized by
a conservation officer. Priority access to this moose meat will be managed by the regional or district
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office where the problem moose occurs. Persons
interested in this program must provide a medical note from a doctor. For more information or to add
you name to a priority list, please contact your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and
Agriculture office.
(a) the designated hunter keeps the hunter with a disability within sight or within 800 meters of the
hunter with a disability;
(b) the designated hunter possesses the licence and tags of the hunter with a disability at all times while
hunting for that hunter with a disability.
“Disability affecting hunting activities” means a permanent impairment or other permanent medical
condition which, in the opinion of a health care provider, restricts a person’s ability to perform the
activities of hunting, including shooting and retrieving a big game animal. General examples of hunting
activity may include but is not limited to: walking and negotiating various outdoor terrain, streams,
rivers or ponds; carrying, holding, operating and/or discharging a firearm or drawing a bow; and, lifting
or carrying animal parts or equipment which may be in excess of 100 pounds.
“Designated hunter” means a person who has completed a hunter training course or and is specified by
a hunter with a disability to shoot and retrieve a big game animal of the type and sex named on the
licence of the hunter with a disability, but does not include a person who is prohibited by the court
from possessing a firearm or holding a big game licence.
“Hunter with a disability” means a person who holds a valid big game licence issued by the Minister
and has a disability affecting hunting activities as prescribed in the Wild Life Regulations.
A designated hunter is not required to keep the hunter with a disability within sight when the
designated hunter is in pursuit of an animal that he or she has injured.
A person may not be specified as a designated hunter more than once in a season.
How to Apply
1. If you already receive applications for the resident big game licence draw and have a Hunter
Certificate Number you may apply for the PHAD by completing an application form, available here
and forwarding it to the Wildlife Division’s, Licencing Section via email or Canada Post at the address
below, or;
2. New big game licence applicants not presently receiving an application for the resident big game
licence draw may submit the PHAD application form after completing the Canadian Firearm Safety
and Hunter Education Course.
Note: A person who is registered with the Wildlife Division as a “Hunter with a Disability” will receive an
Outdoor Identification Card (OIC) with the a code “D” or “DN” on the card; D means disability affecting
hunting and DN means legally blind. Replacement OIC cards are available upon request.
For more information, please telephone 709.637.2025 or Email: wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca Include your
name, NL Driver’s Licence/NL Photo ID and telephone number.
Mailing Address
Wildlife Division
P.O. Box 2007
Corner Brook, NL
A2H 7S1
Additional Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities to Access Moose
Persons with disabilities not able to participate in the CFSC/HE Course or persons with disabilities
who are eligible to hunt big game and are registered for the Program for Hunters with a Disability may
become eligible to receive a problem moose from farms or moose that is euthanized by a conservation
officer. Priority access to this moose meat is managed by the regional or district Department of
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office where the problem moose occurs. Persons interested in
problem moose must be eligible for the Program for Hunters with a Disability and hold a big game
license or provide a medical note from a doctor. For more information or to add your name to a
priority list, please contact your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office.
Regulation Summaries
Regulation Summary
This section contains a summary of regulations you must know when hunting in Newfoundland and
Labrador. This summary is neither a legal document nor a complete collection of current hunting
regulations or firearm laws. It is an abbreviated guide issued for the convenience of hunters. The Wild Life
Act and Regulations, www.assembly.nl.ca/legislation/sr/consolidation/ should be consulted for
interpreting and applying the law. Contact a Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Office if
you have any questions.
DEFINITIONS
“Hunting” means chasing, pursuing, worrying, following after or on the trail of or searching for, or lying
in wait for wildlife whether or not the wildlife is then or later captured, injured or killed. “Hunt” and
“hunter” have corresponding meanings.
“Open Season” means any period during which it is lawful to hunt, take, or kill, or attempt to hunt, take,
or kill wildlife under the provision of the Wild Life Act and Regulations.
“Closed Season” means any period during which hunting, taking, or killing of wildlife is prohibited.
“Firearm” means a device by which a missile is discharged by means of an explosive propellant or by
compressed air or by a spring and includes sporting guns of all calibres, automatic or autoloading guns,
repeating guns, pump guns, set guns, swivel guns, punt guns, rifles, pistols and revolvers of every
description, crossbows, longbows and compound bows.
GENERAL
It is unlawful:
to hunt, take or kill any wildlife except during open seasons;

to hunt, take, or kill any wildlife without a valid licence;
for a resident to hunt with a firearm unless you possess an Outdoor Identification Card or
jurisdictional equivalent in the case of a non-resident;
to make a false statement or supply false information when applying for a licence;
to complete an application form for a big game licence on behalf of another person, without the
permission of that person;
to apply for a licence/pool advancement if you have been prohibited, by a court, from possessing a
firearm;
to apply for a licence/pool advancement if you have been prohibited, by a court, from holding a licence;
for a resident to apply for a licence with a non-resident;
to hunt without your licence and/or tags on your person;
to hunt on a licence belonging to someone else (unless designated either by a disabled hunter
authorized through the Program for Hunters and Anglers with a Disability or under a NFP licence to
do so);
to transfer your licence to another person; and

to hunt on a licence which has been changed, altered or defaced in any manner.
LICENCE RETURNS
Big game returns must be submitted within seven days of the season closing date or within seven days
of the date of kill.
Small game, coyote and trapping returns must be submitted within seven days of the season closing
date.
PRODUCTION OF LICENCES – CHECKSTATIONS
If requested by a conservation officer, a person shall not refuse or neglect to produce or permit the
examination of game licences and tags, permissions, consents and other documentation required to be
carried under these regulations, or firearms and ammunition and wildlife.
BAG LIMIT
It is unlawful to exceed the bag limits as stated in the Annual Hunting Orders. These can be viewed at
http://assembly.nl.ca/legislation/sr/reg_512.htm
FIREARMS, AMMUNITION
It is unlawful:
to discharge or handle a firearm while hunting without exercising reasonable care for the safety of
other persons;
to carry, transport or possess firearms or ammunition during a closed season in any area frequented
by wildlife, unless you have a permit to transport (these are available from Department of Fisheries,
Forestry and Agriculture offices). A person travelling to a hunting area may, if he/she holds the proper
game licence, transport a firearm or ammunition if the firearm is cased or securely wrapped and tied;
to carry, transport or possess firearms or ammunition during an open season for shooting in any area
frequented by wildlife, unless you have a valid game licence and/or permit;
to carry, transport or possess, in any area frequented by wildlife, any pump or autoloading shotgun
unless it is plugged or altered so that it cannot carry more than three shells in the magazine and
chamber combined;
to hunt with any fully automatic rifle (semi-automatic or autoloading rifles may be used);
to possess in any camp, tent or summer cottage, any firearm during closed season, unless you have a
permit;
to carry, transport or possess a loaded firearm in or on, or discharge a firearm from, any aircraft, motor
vehicle, snow machine, or all- terrain vehicle. A firearm is considered to be loaded if there is a live shell
or cartridge in the chamber or magazine and the magazine is attached to the firearm in its usual
position;
to use or possess, in any area frequented by wildlife, any ammunition that has been cut, ringed or
altered in any way;
for a licenced hunter to carry or possess more than one firearm unless each extra firearm is cased or
securely wrapped and tied;
to discharge a firearm (including bows or crossbows) within 1000 meters of a school, playground or
athletic field or within 300 meters of a dwelling;
to discharge a firearm or hunt on most community pastures during the period May 1 to November 30
inclusive (for information on pasture locations
http://www.assembly.nl.ca/Legislation/sr/Regulations/rc980056.htm or contact your nearest
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office; and
to discharge a firearm (including bows or crossbows) within 1000 meters of a commercial
woodcutting operation that has been clearly marked by signs stating “No Hunting”.
It is unlawful to discharge a firearm from a or across a railway, public road or private road.
BOWS AND ARROWS
It is unlawful:
to hunt any wildlife with an arrow tipped with poison or a drug; and
to hunt any wildlife with an arrow equipped with barbed or explosive arrowheads.
Hunting at Night: It is unlawful to hunt any game with night lights of any description.
Dogs: It is unlawful to take a dog unleashed or to allow a dog to run in any area frequented by wildlife from
April 1 to August 31 inclusive, except in designated field trial/dog training areas and during designated
times. A conservation officer may destroy any dog found to be harassing wildlife. For information on field
trial/dog training areas, contact your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office or
visit https://www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/wildlife/dog-training-areas/
WOUNDED ANIMALS
Any person who kills, cripples or wounds any game animal shall make all reasonable efforts to retrieve
that animal.
Notwithstanding the requirement under these regulations to hold a valid licence in order to hunt, take
or kill wildlife with a firearm, a designated adult may shoot an animal that has been injured by youth
hunting under a valid licence for the purpose of assisting the youth. The designated adult shall keep
the youth in sight at all times, except when it is necessary to pursue the injured animal.
AIRCRAFT (INCLUDING DRONES) AND VEHICLES
It is unlawful:
to chase or harass any wildlife with any aircraft, motor vehicle, boat, snow machine or all-terrain
vehicle of any type;
to hunt any wildlife with, or possess any loaded firearm on, any aircraft, motor vehicle, snow machine
or all-terrain vehicle of any type. Such vehicles may be used for transportation to and from a hunting
area and for transporting any game taken, except where restrictions apply to the use of all-terrain
vehicles; and
to use any aircraft to search for or locate any wildlife for hunting on your own behalf or on behalf of
any other person.
GUIDES
It is unlawful:
to act as a guide without a valid guide licence;

for a guide, while so employed, to kill or take game;
for a guide, while so employed, to accept meat in payment or partial payment for services rendered;
to hunt/shoot wildlife or to angle while acting as a guide, except to demonstrate casting and hooking of
fish.
EXPORT OF GAME
If you have a valid hunting licence and an export permit, you may export or take out of the province
any game legally taken. Export permits are available free from any Department of Fisheries, Forestry
and Agriculture office. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Regulations prohibit the use of used burlap
or other used bags. Use new wrapping material only.
PROHIBITION OF WASTE
It is an offence to allow harvested wild game that is suitable for food to be destroyed, wasted or spoiled.
HUNTING FROM ROADS
It is unlawful:
under the Highway Traffic Act to operate a vehicle in a manner that impedes the normal movement of
traffic to discharge a firearm from a vehicle; and
to discharge a firearm from or across any railway bed, highway, public or private road.
WILDERNESS RESERVE ENTRY PERMITS
It is unlawful to enter the Avalon Wilderness Reserve or the Bay du Nord Wilderness Reserve without
an entry permit. A person who holds a valid big game licence for a moose, caribou or black bear
management area that is inside a Wilderness Reserve does not require a Wilderness Reserve Entry
Permit. For more information on Wilderness Reserve Entry Permits, contact the Natural Areas
Program at 709.637.2081 or visit https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/natural-areas/
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES (ATVS)
It is unlawful for a person to use or operate an ATV vehicle outside an approved area, except:
A person who holds a valid big game licence and, as permitted by the licence, has killed a moose,
caribou or bear may use or operate an ATV outside an approved area for the purpose of transporting
the animal from the place where it was killed. This does not apply to wilderness, ecological or wildlife
reserves or National Parks. Hunters are asked to be conscious of this if applying for a licence in
management areas which include these areas.
A person other than the licence holder may use or operate an ATV for the purpose of transporting an
animal from the place where it was killed, but the licence holder shall remain in the immediate area.
A moose or caribou shall be properly tagged as required before an ATV is to be used or operated.
A person shall not use or operate an ATV more than five times to and from the place where the animal
was killed. When traveling from the place where the animal was killed, a portion of the animal shall be
on the ATV or on a trailer being towed by the ATV.
Where more than one ATV is used or operated in relation to the transporting of a single animal the
total number of trips for all the ATVs shall not exceed five.
A person shall not carry, transport or have in his or her possession a firearm while using or operating
an ATV for the purposes noted above.
For more information, please visit https://www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/public-education/forestry/recreation/atv/
Small Game
AGE REQUIREMENTS
Youth less than 16 years of age may obtain a youth snaring licence to take small game by snaring only.
Individuals must be 12 years of age or older and have completed the Canadian Firearms
Safety/Hunter Education Course or similar training recognized by the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry
and Agriculture in order to hunt with a firearm or bow.
Further conditions apply to Youth Hunting and Trapping Licences.
It is unlawful:
to hunt small game using a shotgun that can hold more than three shells in the magazine and chamber
combined, or to use a shotgun shell loaded with a single bullet.
Small game (excluding ducks, geese and snipe) may be harvested using a rim-fire rifle not greater than
a 22 (Note: this includes .17 rim fire calibers such as the 17 HMR)
BOW AND ARROWS
It is unlawful:
to hunt small game with a long bow, recurve bow or compound bow unless it has at least 10 kilograms
(22 lbs.) pull at full draw
or with a crossbow unless it has 68 kilograms (150 lbs) pull at full draw;
to hunt small game with a long bow, recurve bow, compound bow or crossbow unless the arrow is
tipped with a blunt small game tip designed to kill by shock. Practice or field tips are not permitted.
SNARES
It is unlawful:
to set snares for small game until the first day of the open season. Snares must be removed on or
before the last day of the open season;
for any person to set snares to take or kill wild birds, except the holder of a small game licence for
ptarmigan and grouse for an area open to this activity;
to use a net of any kind to take or kill any small game;to use a fish hook or snare equipped with a fish
hook to take or kill any small game; and on the Island; and
to set snares for small game using snare wire other than 22 gauge brass or six-strand braided wire
(also known as picture cord).
DOGS
It is unlawful, while hunting small game with a dog, to allow the dog to harass any big game animal.
SALE OF SMALL GAME
Snowshoe hare and grouse legally taken under licence may be sold to anyone during the open season
and within seven days thereafter.
Ptarmigan may only be sold if you have a selling permit and the buyer has a Wild Meat Service Licence.
Selling permits are available free from the Wildlife Division. Please contact 709.637.2025 for more
information.
Big Game
Age Requirements: To apply for a big game licence you must be 16 years of age or older by August 31
in the year that the licence is valid. For more information see Youth Hunting and Trapping Licences.
Licence Limit: A person who holds a big game licence issued through the draw process may hold only
one big game licence to shoot a moose or one big game licence to shoot a caribou in a 12-month period
ending April 30.
CO-APPLICANT LICENCE
Each member of a co-applicant licence is considered to be the holder of that licence.

Members of the co-applicant licence may carry firearms and hunt, provided they are in the immediate
area of and within sight of each other while they are hunting.
As a member of a co-applicant licence, you may hunt alone provided you possess the licence and tags.
Only the persons named on a co-applicant licence are eligible to hunt with that licence.
It is unlawful:
unless you hold a valid big game license, to possess firearms and ammunition suitable for hunting big
game;
to hunt big game (moose, caribou or black bear) with any rifle smaller than a .243 caliber or .22 calibre
rifle or any rifle (including muzzle loaders) using ammunition with a bullet weight of less than 100
grains or a muzzle energy less than 1500 foot pounds. For this regulation .22 calibre includes .218,
.219, .220, .222, .22-250, .223, .224 and .225 calibre rifles;
to hunt big game with a slug with any shotgun smaller than 20 gauge;
to hunt big game with or carry in any area frequented by wildlife, full metal cased non-expanding
bullets commonly known as service ammunition; and
to hunt big game with a firearm using any ammunition other than a single bullet or ball.
BOW AND ARROWS
It is unlawful:
to hunt big game with a long bow, recurve bow or compound bow and arrow unless the bow has at
least 20 kilograms (44 lbs.) pull at full draw or with a crossbow and arrow unless it has at least 68
kilograms (150lbs) pull at full draw; and
to hunt big game unless the hunting arrows are tipped with a metal hunting head with two or more
sharpened cutting edges.
HUNTING HOURS
It is unlawful to hunt big game earlier than one-half hour before sunrise or later than one-half hour
after sunset on any day (firearms must be cased or securely wrapped and tied outside of legal hunting
hours).
SNARES
It is unlawful to use traps, pitfalls or snares of any description to hunt big game, except licensed black
bear hunters may trap black bears using Aldrich foot snares or similar devices designed to capture and
hold bears by the foot and must be set in a covered “cubby set”. The set must be clearly marked with a
warning sign indicating that a bear snaring device is set in the “cubby”). Black bear hunters who use
these approved devices must possess both a valid black bear licence and a valid trapper’s licence.
DOGS
It is unlawful to use a dog for hunting (tracking, following or pursuing) big game.
SWIMMING ANIMALS
It is unlawful to hunt or molest any big game animal while it is swimming.
PROOF OF SEX OR AGE
The holder(s) of a male-only licence must leave the scrotum of the animal attached to one hind quarter
as proof of sex. Note: the testicles and penis may be removed, if desired, but the scrotum must remain
attached to the carcass until the animal is transported to the hunter’s home. If a calf is harvested on a
male-only or calf or female-only or calf licence, hunters must retain the jawbone of their kill as proof of
age. The holder(s) of a female-only licence must retain the head of their kill as proof of sex.
USE OF TAGS – TRANSPORT OF BIG GAME
The tags issued with a big game licence must be attached and locked on the animal before it is
removed from the place of kill, defined as, the area included in a 10-meter (33 ft.) radius from where
the animal is dispatched by the hunter.
It is unlawful to possess or transport big game unless the tags are attached and locked to the quarters
between the tendon and the leg bone.In rare cases a tag may be faulty, and fail to lock. If this occurs,
contact the nearest wildlife officer immediately.
It is an offence to transport meat with an unlocked tag, a replacement tag will be issued and must be
affixed before the meat is moved from the actual site of the kill.
Big game tags that have been damaged, lost or stolen must immediately be reported to a wildlife
officer. It is an offence to transport or move a big game animal from the place of kill unless the tag has
been properly affixed to the animal. Replacement tags may be acquired by contacting your nearest
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture or Wildlife Division office.
A big game animal must be removed from the place of kill on or before the closing date of the season. If
you cannot remove the animal by that date, you must get a permit to transport game in closed season
from your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office.
You must fill in and forward your licence return to the Wildlife Division within seven days of the date
of kill or within seven days after the close of the season if no kill is made. If you do not take an animal,
you must also return the unused tags issued with the licence.
GIFTS OF GAME
If you wish to give game meat to friends or family or charitable organization, you must provide a
signed note indicating the licence number, quantity of game meat, date and the names of the people
involved. The individual receiving the game meat must possess the note until the meat is used or
consumed.
SALE AND POSSESSION OF BIG GAME
You may possess big game meat only if you hold a valid licence or if you have been freely given the
meat by a valid licence holder. If you are not the licence holder, you must get written proof that you
acquired the meat from a licence holder and you must show this proof if requested by a wildlife officer.
You can only sell big game meat if you have a valid selling permit (available free from the Wildlife
Division) and the buyer has a valid Wild Meat Service Licence.
The holder of a big game licence may obtain a permit from the Wildlife Division to sell big game to any
holder of a wild meat service licence during the open season and for 7 days after the open season.
The holder of a wild meat service licence shall not sell, serve or offer to sell or serve big game meat or
small game meat except in the form of prepared meals.
Any religious, charitable or educational organization may serve big game meat in the form of prepared
meals, for which a charge is made, where the big game has been taken by the organization in
accordance with the Wild Life Regulations or has been donated by a licence holder. Any big game
meat that has been donated by a licence holder to an organization must be treated the same as Gifts of
Game above.
COLD STORAGE
A person may not accept or store any untagged big game or big game parts in a commercial, company
or private cold storage, bait depot or other freezer unless the person requesting storage provides a
signed document containing the licence number the game was harvested under, date of harvest,
names of those involved and the quantity of game being stored.
Coyotes and Wolves
Reminder
Centre-fire rifles not greater than .225 calibre may only be used on the Island portion of the province
outside of the open big game season for wolf and coyote.
COYOTE SHOOTING LICENCE
The coyote shooting licence is combined with the small game licence. During the open shooting season for
coyotes, hunters may use centre-fire rifle calibres up to and including a.225 or shotguns using shot size
(#2 or larger).
There are no bag limits for coyotes.

Rim-fire rifles not greater than .22 caliber may be used for small game hunting and may also be used to
shoot coyotes during the period that small game seasons are open.
Centre-fire rifles not greater than .225 calibre may be used except in the Island portion of the
province during the open big game moose season (September 14 – December 31, 2024).
WOLF SHOOTING LICENCE
The wolf shooting licence is combined with the small game and coyote shooting licence. During the open
shooting season for wolf, hunters may use centre-fire rifle calibres up to and including a.225 or shotguns
using shot size (#2 or larger).
A Small Game/Wolf/Coyote Shooting Licence has a bag limit of one wolf.

Centre-fire rifles not greater than .225 calibre may be used except in the Island portion of the
province during the open big game moose season (September 14 – December 31, 2024).
Hunters are asked to not shoot wolves that have been marked with radio collars and/or ear tags.
The lower jawbone or complete skull of all harvested wolves must be submitted to a Department of
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture or Wildlife Division office by May 10, 2024.
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO HARVEST COYOTES
Holders of a valid big game licence (moose, caribou or black bear) may harvest coyotes during the open
season for those species and in the management area for which their licence is valid (licences become
invalid when tags have been filled). Hunters must use firearms and ammunition that the big game licence
authorizes them to possess.
Trappers who hold a valid trapping licence may also shoot lynx, fox and coyote using rifles up to .225
calibre during the period when trapping seasons for these species are open except on the Island during the
big game moose season (September 14 – December 31, 2024).
WOLF AND COYOTE-WOLF HYBRID CARCASS COLLECTION PROGRAM
The occurrence of the gray wolf (from Labrador) and wolf-coyote hybrid has been documented by
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture on the Island of Newfoundland. To assist with
further monitoring of the occurrence and distribution of coyotes, wolves or wolf-coyote hybrids
within the province (including Labrador), hunters and trappers are being asked to submit the entire
canid carcass to the nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture or Wildlife Division
office. A $25 fee will be paid to each hunter or trapper for submitting carcasses. Each carcass will be
tagged with a unique registration number that is used to identify where and when the animal was
harvested and to assist the Department with further genetic analysis work. Harvesters will be
required to provide their full name and address for payment and administrative purposes. For more
information please contact your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office.
Migratory Game Birds
The following is a summary of the Migratory Birds Regulations as they apply in Newfoundland and
Labrador. Migratory game birds (ducks, geese, snipe) and murres are managed by the federal government
under the Migratory Birds Convention Act. For complete information on the Migratory Birds Convention
Act and Migratory Birds Regulations, contact the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) or visit here.
If you have questions on the Migratory Birds Regulations, you may contact the Canadian Wildlife Service
at enviroinfo@ec.gc.ca or to speak to someone please call toll free 1-800-668-6767.
LICENCE REQUIREMENTS
To hunt migratory game birds and murres you must possess a valid Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit.
AGE REQUIREMENTS
To hunt migratory game birds in Newfoundland and Labrador, you must be 12 years of age or older. Please
refer to Youth Hunting and Trapping Licence for more information.
It is unlawful:
to hunt migratory game birds using a shotgun that can hold more than three shells in the magazine and
chamber combined;
to hunt migratory game birds with a rifle or shotgun shell loaded with a single bullet;
to hunt migratory game birds with any shotgun larger than a 10 gauge;
while hunting migratory game birds, to possess more than one shotgun unless each shotgun in excess
of one is unloaded and cased or securely wrapped and tied; and
to hunt migratory game birds using any shot other than non-toxic shot (except murres). Note: The
exception for murres applies only to murre hunts. If a multi-species hunt for migratory game birds (e.g., murres
and waterfowl) occurs, it is prohibited to have toxic shot in your possession.
AIRCRAFT, VEHICLES, BOATS
It is unlawful:
to shoot migratory game birds from any aircraft, sailboat, power boat, aircraft or motorized vehicle, or
any vehicle to which a draught animal is attached; and
to use a boat, aircraft or motor vehicle to disturb migratory game birds in order to drive them toward a
hunter. It is permitted to retrieve dead or injured birds by the use of a power boat.
Decoys: It is unlawful to use live birds as decoys or to use recorded bird calls when hunting migratory
game birds.
Bag Limits: Information concerning seasons and bag limits is available at the time of purchase of your
Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit at a Canada Post Outlet or by visiting here.
Wounded Birds: It is unlawful to kill, cripple or wound a migratory game bird without immediately making
all reasonable efforts to retrieve it.
HUNTING HOURS
It is unlawful to hunt migratory game birds earlier than one-half hour before sunrise or later than one-half
hour after sunset on any day.
BAIT RESTRICTIONS
It is unlawful in this province:
to deposit bait in any place during the period beginning 14 days before the first day of the open season
and ending on the day immediately following the last day of the open season; and
to hunt migratory game birds within 400 meters of any place where bait has been deposited unless the
place has been free of bait for at least seven days.
POSSESSION AND TRANSPORT
It is unlawful:
to possess or transport a migratory game bird unless the head or at least one wing with its feathers
remains attached to the bird. The wing and feathers may be removed when the bird is prepared for
immediate cooking or after the bird is stored at the owner’s residence;
to ship or transport a package containing migratory birds, unless the package or container is clearly
marked with the name and address of the shipper, the Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit number
under which the birds were taken, and the exact contents of the package;
to possess a carcass of a migratory game bird belonging to or taken by another person, unless the
carcass has attached to it a tag or note that is signed by the holder of the Migratory Game Bird
Hunting Permit under which the bird was taken that indicates the name and address of the permit
holder, the Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit number and the date the bird was taken; and
to possess any shot other than non-toxic shot for the purpose of hunting migratory game birds (this
does not apply to murre hunting).
Egg and Nests: It is unlawful to take, injure or destroy the eggs or nests of migratory birds at any time.
Sale of Migratory Game Birds: It is unlawful to buy or sell any migratory game bird. This includes the
buying or selling of murres.
Provincial Regulations: While hunting migratory game birds, you must also abide by all provincial hunting
regulations.
YOUTH WATERFOWLING
Waterfowler Heritage Days have been replaced with a Migratory Game Bird Hunting permit for youth,
which is referred to as the Youth MGBH permit.
Hunters who are minors (less than 18 years old) may now hunt with a Youth MGBH permit. The Youth
MGBH permit, as well as the Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation stamp, can be obtained through the
online purchasing system, free of charge.
The Youth MGBH permit provides young hunters with the opportunity to practice their skills under the
supervision of an adult mentor (in possession of a MGBH Permit) throughout the full Open season and the
special conservation season, and provides Youth MGBH Permit holders with their own daily bag and
possession limits.
Mentors must possess their own MGBH permit, must have held such a permit in a previous year, and may
accompany no more than two youth hunters. Mentors may carry a firearm, and may hunt. For more
information on the new rules pertaining to hunting migratory game birds in the modernized Migratory
Birds Regulations, 2022, please consult the Migratory Game Bird Hunting web page.
Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement
“Labrador Inuit Settlement Area” refers to Labrador Inuit Settlement Area outside the Labrador Inuit
Lands and the Torngat
Mountains National Park.
The Labrador Inuit Land Claims

Agreement (Agreement)
between the Labrador Inuit
Association, the Government
of Newfoundland and
Labrador, and the Government
of Canada came into effect on
December 1, 2005. This
Agreement establishes two
categories of land the Labrador
Inuit Settlement Area
(Settlement Area) and
Labrador Inuit Lands. The
Settlement Area consists of
72,520km2 of land and an
adjacent ocean area of
45,690km2 referred to as the
Zone and includes Labrador
Inuit Lands and the Torngat
Mountains National Park.
Labrador Inuit Lands consists
of 15,800km2 of Inuit-owned
land.
The Agreement outlines conditions for individuals who hunt, trap and fish within the Settlement Area and
for non-beneficiaries to access Labrador Inuit Lands for harvesting purposes. Non-beneficiaries are
required to get permission in the form of a permit from the Nunatsiavut Government to pursue any
activities inside Labrador Inuit Lands unless your interests are accommodated under the Agreement.
For further information respecting access to Labrador Inuit Lands, please contact the Nunatsiavut
Government’s Department of Lands and Natural Resources by mail at P.O. Box 909, Station B, Happy
Valley-Goose Bay, NL, A0P 1E0, by telephone at 709.896.8582, by fax at 896-2610, or via their website at
www.nunatsiavut.com.
For further information on interests accommodated under the Agreement or other changes resulting
from the Agreement please contact the Wildlife Division, Department of Fisheries, Forestry and
Agriculture by phone at 896-5107 or by fax at 896-0188. The Agreement, including more detailed maps
of the Settlement Area, Labrador Inuit Lands and the Torngat Mountains National Park can be found
online at
Labrador and Inuit Land Claims Agreement – Document – Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
(gov.nl.ca)
Hunting Seasons and Zones
Island
Moose
Moose Reduction Zones
Moose Population Reduction in National Parks
Caribou
Black Bear
Small Game
Labrador
Moose
Black Bear
Small Game
Coyotes/Wolves
Island
Moose
Moose Population Reduction in National Parks
Caribou
Black Bear
Small Game
Moose
Moose Population Management
Links to select area maps below now also contain mapping for moose population density
estimations. There is also now a second link to tables with information and data used to calculate
area population densities. More information on the process of collection and calculation, as well as
uses for the information are available here.
Moose Season dates Either Male Total Quota Success

Management 2024-25 Sex Quota Changes Rate
Areas 2022
(Newfoundland)
1 St. Anthony Sept. 14 – 400 200 600 0 59.5

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
2 Portland Creek Sept. 14 – 675 275 950 0 58.40

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
2A Cow Head-St. Sept. 14 – 20 0 20 -10 40.0

Paul’s Dec. 31
2B Sally’s Cove Sept. 14 – 10 0 10 -10 35.0

Dec. 31
2E GMNP (Zones) Zone 1: 500 0 500 0 49.6

Saturday, Sept
21, 2024 to
Sunday, Jan
26, 2025
Zone 2:
Saturday, Oct
19, 2024 to
Sunday, Jan
26, 2025
Zone 3:
Saturday, Nov
16, 2024 to
Sunday, Jan
26, 2025
Zone 4:
Closed to
hunting
3 Harbour Deep Sept. 14 – 1150 0 1150 0 40.9

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
4 Taylor’s Brook Sept. 14 – 325 275 600 +25 74.1

Dec. 31
5 Trout River Sept. 14 – 650 500 1150 0 57.2

Dec. 31
5A Rocky Sept. 14 – 30 0 30 0 66.7

Harbour Dec. 31
6 Corner Brook Sept. 14 – 850 600 1450 -100 49.3

Dec. 31
7 South Brook Sept. 14 – 450 350 800 0 54.4

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
8 St. Georges Sept. 14 – 560 310 870 -50 53.4

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
9 Anguille Mtns. Sept. 14 – 290 240 530 0 55.9

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
10 Port aux Sept. 14 – 450 400 850 -50 55.0

Basques Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
11 Dashwoods Sept. 14 – 410 250 660 0 57.5

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
12 Buchans Sept. 14 – 200 175 375 0 52.6

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
13 Gaff Topsails Sept. 14 – 170 150 320 0 66.7

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
14 Baie Verte Sept. 14 – 550 500 1050 -50 59.9

Dec. 31
15 Twin Lakes Sept. 14 – 725 425 1150 0 51.2

Dec. 31
16 Sandy Badger Sept. 14 – 100 75 175 -25 49.2

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
17 Millertown Sept. 14 – 350 300 650 0 57.7

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
18 Granite Lake Sept. 14 – 175 175 350 -50 53.0

Dec. 31
19 Grey River Sept. 14 – 300 150 450 0 64.9

West Dec. 31
20 Round Pond Sept. 14 – 80 40 120 +40 75.0

Dec. 31
21 Rattling Brook Sept. 14 – 150 125 275 +25 66.4

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
22 Lewisporte Sept. 14 – 500 350 850 +50 70.1

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
23 Bonavista Sept. 14 – 350 300 650 +50 69.2

North Dec. 31
24 NorthWest Sept. 14 – 80 80 160 0 67.5

Gander Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
25 Bay d’Espoir Sept. 14 – 275 225 500 +50 75.2

Dec. 31
26 Jubilee Lake Sept. 14 – 450 0 450 0 47.0

Dec. 31
27 Terra Nova Sept. 14 – 125 75 200 0 62.6

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
28 Black River Sept. 14 – 200 100 300 0 71.8

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
28A TNNP Oct. 15, 2024 25 0 25 0 16.7

(Zones) – Jan. 26,
2025
29 Bonavista Pen. Sept. 14 – 400 300 700 -50 53.3

Dec. 31
30 Burin Pen Sept. 14 – 350 225 575 +25 72.4

Knee Dec. 31
31 Placentia Sept. 14 – 250 0 250 0 55.7

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
32 Cape Shore Sept. 14 – 225 100 325 0 55.3

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
33 Salmonier Sept. 14 – 325 0 325 0 34.7

Dec. 31
34 Bay De Verde Sept. 14 – 300 200 500 0 48.7

Dec. 31
35 St John’s Sept. 14 – 300 75 375 0 36.5

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
36 Southern Sept. 14 – 700 350 1050 -50 46.5

Shore Dec. 31
37 Grey River Sept. 14 – 350 0 350 0 50.6

East Dec. 31
38 Burin Pen. Sept. 14 – 200 150 350 +50 84.8

Foot Dec. 31
39 Cloud River Sept. 14 – 350 0 350 -50 36.4

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
39A Cloud River Sept. 14 – 100 0 100 -50 27.9

Dec. 31
40 Conche Sept. 14 – 800 300 1100 0 57.6

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
41 Sheffield Lake Sept. 14 – 175 125 300 +25 65.2

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
42 Gambo Sept. 14 – 70 50 120 +20 65.5

Dec. 31
Area Map
with Moose
Density
Population
Information
43 Port Au Port Sept. 14 – 100 0 100 0 57.0

Dec. 31
44 Bellevue Sept. 14 – 100 0 100 0 31.0

Dec. 31
45 Ten Mile Lake Sept. 14 – 700 200 900 0 64.6

Dec. 31
47 Random Island Sept. 14 – 20 20 40 0 57.5

Dec. 31
100 Avalon MRZ Sept. 14 – 600 0 600 0 32.8

Dec. 31
101 Central MRZ Sept. 14 – 400 0 400 +200 55.0

Dec. 31
Charitable/NFP 460 460 0
Totals 18850 8740 27590 +15 55.7
Note:
NFP licences: Fisheries, Foresty & Agriculture, 370; Gros Morne National Park 75; Terra Nova
National Park
15.
Bow hunting begins August 31, 2024 (Note: this does not include cross bows) for areas opening on
September 14,
2024
Non-resident moose allocations that are a component of the overall licence quotas are not indicated in
this table and will be updated as they become available.
Advisories
Quotas for some Moose Management Areas (MMAs) may change pending aerial census work being
carried out during the winter
of 2023/24. Changes will be announced through a Departmental News Release prior to the big game
licence draw. News releases
are available online at https://www.gov.nl.ca/releases/
Over 75 percent of meat spoilage cases that are reported occur as a result of improper handling or field
care by the
hunter. A replacement licence will only be issued if an animal is found to be unfit for consumption because
of disease
or previous injury and the entire carcass has been submitted for disposal. Contact your nearest FFA office
for more information.
Moose Population Management
The Wildlife Division is responsible for the sustainable management of moose as a game species for
Newfoundland and Labrador. The Division attempts to maintain population size below the carrying
capacity of the ecosystem, while retaining enough animals to maximize the opportunity to hunt and keep
hunter satisfaction at acceptable levels.
The island of Newfoundland, does not have an apex predator capable of naturally controlling moose
population size. The implication of this is the Division and the hunting public are charged with this task.
Without adequate population control, moose can increase in number unchecked until habitat and food
availability become limiting factors to population growth. This can result in habitat degradation and
population crashes in moose and other species within the ecosystem.
The Division controls moose populations through a quota allocation distributed across a management
unit system (Moose Management Areas, or MMAs). Many sources of data inform decisions around quota
development including winter population census, population modeling, and license return harvest
statistics. Public opinion and feedback are also very important, as is expert knowledge and experience.
During the annual quota development process, a population estimate and trajectory is established for
each MMA, which is then assessed against the target population size. The harvest required to manage the
species towards the target is established and a quota developed based on recent success rates in the area.
However, moose do not occur uniformly across an MMA. Quotas are developed to manage the MMA as a
single unit, so an over or under abundant portion of the management unit can impact the resulting quota.
Due to the naturally patchy distribution of moose, moose habitat, and hunter access (i.e. woods road
access, as well as reasonable terrain to allow for effective hunting), hunters are not always aware of the
variation in moose density within and MMA. This can make it difficult for management biologists to
address over or under abundant regions within an MMA, and in some cases difficult to manage the MMA
as a whole. It can also frustrate hunters trying to hunt an area they perceive is being mismanaged.
The goal of this moose density mapping project was to address this disconnect by creating a product that
is easy to interpret to help inform the general public around the wider distribution of moose within each
MMA. It is the hope of the Division that a well-informed public can better participate in productive
discussion around moose management. A possible secondary benefit to the hunting public in particular,
and another hope of the Division, is that this mapping may aid in planning a hunt away from or towards
these under or over abundant portions of management areas helping to address some of the more
extreme variations in density.
It is important to note that population estimates developed from these aerial surveys do not rely on this
mapping methodology. This mapping was developed using a “spatial statistical model” in order to create a
visual product to provide to hunters for descriptive purposes only. Though useful, this methodology has
its limitations and they should be understood and considered when using these maps to plan a hunt:
Moose census data is collected between January and March each year. This mapping will only reflect
moose distribution during the winter months. Distribution during spring, summer and fall may be
different, the extent to which will depend on the area.

During the winter survey, moose densities are measured at randomly selected locations within an
MMA. These locations are referred to as survey blocks. Survey blocks account for approximately 12%
of a given MMA, so densities for remaining 78% of each MMA in this product have been estimated by
a statistical modeling software. This methodology uses the measured densities and the distances
between them to “interpolate” moose density across the MMA (i.e. create a smooth surface from one
measured density to another). To be clear, the area of land between survey blocks has not been
surveyed, no moose have been counted there, and the model does not incorporate habitat, human
development, hunter access, harvest pressure, or any other factor that may influence moose
occurrence. This mapping is very useful in highlighting general areas where moose are more or less
abundant, but will not pick up the finer points of the patchy distribution mentioned earlier.
Due to the random placement of survey blocks (required by the census methodology), this mapping
may be less reliable in underrepresented regions within an MMA. For example, an area of low moose
density without a survey block, but surrounded by high moose density survey blocks (eg barren
mountain top, or rugged coastline) maybe be incorrectly classified by the software as high density.
Examples of this include:
1. MMA 1 – the large yellow “medium density” area towards the eastern portion of the MMA.
2. MMA 10 – the large orange “medium density” area along the western portion of the coast.
3. MMA 22 – The large red “high density” area in the north east of the MMA.
To assist with interpretation of this mapping, the surveyed blocks (measured density) have been indicated
by a black outline and hash marks. A black dot, sized relative to the measured density (the larger the dot
the higher the density), has been placed inside each block. Please be aware, each MMA is classified (i.e.
blocks colored green to red indicating low to high moose density) independently of each other. A high
density in one MMA may not be equal in value to the high density in another.
It is important to use this product as one tool in your tool box, and to consider other information and local
knowledge of the area when planning a hunt.
New information is added to the Island Moose Season Table here.
The Moose Reduction Zone (MRZ) project was established in 2015 to study the effects of directed moose
hunting and adaptive moose management strategies that could potentially address Moose Vehicle
Collisions (MVCs) on our highways.
The project has been implemented in two locations: the Avalon MRZ – Moose Management Area 100 and
the Central Newfoundland MRZ – Moose Management Area 101. Each MRZ is a unique and separate
moose management area (MMA) that is a maximum 6 kilometres wide by approximately 268 km and 98
km long respectively and excludes the actual traveled portion of any roadway or highway. These study
areas were selected based on the reported rates of MVCs as determined by the Department of
Transportation and Works. A total quota of 800 either sex licences has been allocated for these MRZs that
eligible resident big game hunters may apply for as part the 2023 annual big game licence draw; 600
licences are available for the Avalon MRZ and 200 licences for the Central MRZ.
The Avalon MRZ and the Central MRZ opens September 14, 2024 and closes December 31, 2024.
Hunters who hold a valid licence for an MMA that overlaps with a portion of an MRZ are permitted to
hunt the portion of the MRZ that is within their MMA boundary; including during the pre-season bow
hunt.
Central MRZ (MMA 101)
Avalon MRZ (MMA 100)
Note: MRZ maps are for general reference purposes only. For further information on maps and
boundaries visit https://www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/ or contact a FAA office nearest you
As a hunter, your cooperation and participation in this project is very important. While this project
involves studying the direct effects of using hunting to reduce moose populations in the MRZs, it is also
especially important that hunters travelling along any section of highway or roadway in search of moose
recognize that existing traffic and hunter safety laws must be observed at all times. Please be safe and
hunt responsibly. Hunters who are successful in receiving a licence in a MRZ through the big game draw
will also receive additional information with their licence that will outline other essential details
concerning moose hunting in the MRZs and how to report their activities as part of their participation in
the project. For more information about sample collection please call 709.637.2025
Moose Population Management in Terra Nova and

Gros Morne National Parks 2024-25
Parks Canada is seeking the assistance of qualified moose hunters to participate in an ecosystem health
program to manage moose populations in Terra Nova and Gros Morne National Parks. The purpose of the
program is to allow the forests in these national parks to continue to recover from the damaging effects of
moose over browsing.
Twenty-five (25) licences will be available in Terra Nova National Park and five hundred (500) in Gros
Morne National Park. In addition, both parks will make not-for-profit (NFP) licences available to
registered NFP organizations. A total of (15) and (75) NFP licences will be available for Terra Nova
National Park and Gros Morne National Park, respectively.
Licences for both national parks (MMA 28A and MMA 2E) will be issued through the existing provincial
draw system. If you are successful in the draw for one of these areas, in addition to your provincial licence
and tags, you will receive a separate package containing your Superintendent’s permit from Parks Canada
together with an area map and additional information. For the purpose of the licencing draw and pool
status, these MMAs will be treated the same as all others and standard provincial licencing fees will apply.
For more information on NFP licences contact Parks Canada.
Before applying for a national park licence, please note that there are differences between provincial
hunting regulations and what is permissible under this ecosystem management program in a national
park. For example:
Moose is the only species permitted for hunting. Hunting licences for other species are not valid in
national parks.
Open fires and tree cutting are prohibited.
Failure to comply with regulations may result in charges under the Canada National Parks Act.
TERRA NOVA NATIONAL PARK (MMA 28A)
There is a single MMA (28A) for Terra Nova National Park with one hunting zone identified within this
area:
Zone 1 – Shared Access Area (opens Tuesday, October 15, 2024). This area allows visitor and hunter
access simultaneously, and includes most areas of the park.
Zone 1 will close on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
A description of Zone 1, as well as all closed areas, will be identified in hunter information packages, on
our website (https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nl/terranova/nature/forets-forests/harv), and through in-
park signage.
Applications for not-for-profit licences for Terra Nova National Park must be received by 4:30 pm on
August 16, 2024. Application forms can be obtained by contacting John Gosse (Parks Canada) at 709-
533-3204 or john.gosse@pc.gc.ca.
Important Information for Hunters in Terra Nova National Park:
There may be construction projects ongoing within Terra Nova National Park during the hunting
season. Hunting is NOT permitted within construction zones. Construction zones and work areas
throughout the Park may change daily. Please pay close attention to posted signs and call 709-533-
2801 or visit our website (https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nl/terranova/nature/forets-forests/harv)
for up-to-date information.
A 20-metre no hunting roadside buffer will remain in effect along the Trans-Canada Highway and
Route 301 (to the community of Terra Nova). A 50-metre buffer will remain in effect alongside Route
310 (Eastport Peninsula).
The use of motorized watercraft on inland waterways, as well as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and
snowmobiles within Terra Nova National Park, is prohibited for any purpose, including carcass
retrieval.
There are few access roads within Terra Nova National Park. Public highways, community and service
roads, and boat accessible coastline generally provide motorized access only to the margins of the
MMA.
In the interest of public safety and to allow for visitor use, NOT ALL areas within the MMA are open to
hunting. These areas are indicated on the map for MMA 28A and are also marked by signage in the
Park. Moose harvesters are responsible for knowing which areas are closed and must refrain from
hunting within these areas.
Back-country camping is permitted at designated campsites. Moose harvesters are required to
register with the Park if they are overnighting in back-country areas. Coordinates of all backcountry
campsites will be available in the information package.
GROS MORNE NATIONAL PARK (MMA 2E)
There is a single MMA for Gros Morne National Park that will be divided into three hunting zones.
Each hunting zone has a different opening date. Your MMA 2E licence and tags are valid in all zones:
Zone 1 (opens Saturday, September 21, 2024). This zone is limited to backcountry areas greater
than 2 km from park highways.
Zone 2 (opens Saturday, October 19, 2024). This zone includes the majority of the remainder of
the park and is accessible by road.
Zone 3 (opens Saturday, November 16, 2024). This zone surrounds the Killdevil Camp and areas
adjacent to heavily-used park trails.
All zones close on January 26, 2025.

There will be ongoing construction projects within Gros Morne National Park during the hunting
season. Hunting is NOT permitted within 1 km of construction zones. Construction zones and work
areas throughout the park may change daily. Please pay close attention to posted signs and
Call 709-458-2417 or visit our website https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nl/grosmorne/bulletins for up-

to-date information.
Applications for not-for-profit licences for Gros Morne National Park must be received by 4:30 pm on
August 16, 2024. Late applications will not be considered. Application forms can be obtained by
contacting Gros Morne National Park.
Important Information for Hunters in Gros Morne National Park:
All-terrain vehicle (ATV) use, including for carcass retrieval, is prohibited.

There are few access roads within the national park. Public highways, community roads, and boat-
accessible coastline generally provide motorized access only to the margins of the MMA.
Hunters may use snowmobiles to access areas of Gros Morne National Park for the purpose of
harvesting a moose. Successful applicants will receive a permit to use a snowmobile in Gros Morne
National Park, however certain restrictions apply; for example, some areas of the park are closed to all
snowmobiling and snowmobiling can only occur when there is adequate snow cover. Call 709-458-
2417 or visit our website https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nl/grosmorne/bulletins for up-to-date
information.
Hunters may use motorized/non-motorized boats to access the MMA in accordance with park
regulations.
Hunter information packages that will be mailed before the start of the season will contain more
information such as maps and relevant operational details.
For more information:

Terra Nova National Park: 709-533-2801 • Gros Morne National Park: 709-458-2417
www.pc.gc.ca/foresthealth
Caribou
Caribou 2024 Either Male Total Quota Sucess

Management Season Sex Quota Changes (%)
Areas 2022
61 Lapoile Sept.14 – 40 25 65 10 79.95

Dec.1
62 Buchans Sept.14 – 55 30 85 10 72.57

Dec.1
63 Grey River CLOSED – – – 0 N/A
64 Middle Sept.14 – 150 120 270 20 74.56

Ridge Dec.1
65 Avalon Pen CLOSED – – – 0 N/A
66 Gaff Sept.14 – 15 29 44 9 68.92

Topsails Dec.1
67 Pot Hill Sept.14 – 0 30 30 0 82.22

Dec.1
68 Mount Sept.14 – 15 0 15 0 76.67

Peyton Dec.1
69 Northern CLOSED – – – 0 N/A

Pen
70 Merasheen Sept.14 – 10 0 10 -15 65.71

Oct. 6
* 71 Grey Sept.14 – 8 0 8 8 N/A

Islands (A&B) Nov. 3
72 Fogo Island Sept.14 – 4 0 4 -21 77.33

Oct. 13
76 St. Anthony Sept.14 – 20 25 45 0 89.36

Dec.1
77 Cape Shore Sept.14 – 10 0 10 0 62.1

Dec.1
78 Hampden Sept.14 – 5 0 5 0 74.45

Downs Dec.1
79 Adies Lake Sept.14 – 5 0 5 0 82.1

Dec.1
Totals 337 259 596 21 75.37
*This table has been updated based on the 2024 caribou survey results. Quotas have been adjusted for several
areas to ensure the conservation of caribou and continued sustainable harvest across the range. All changes are
reflected in the resident allocation.
Bow hunting season begins August 31, 2024 in all CMAs, excluding 70, 71, & 72 and does not include
cross bows.
Hunters are advised against harvesting adult male caribou during the peak of the rut, generally the
first three weeks of October, due to the possibility of the meat being unpalatable.
Non-resident caribou allocations that are a component of the overall licence quotas are not indicated
in this table and will be updated as they become available.
* An updated hunting area map for CMA 71 will be available when licences are issued after the 2024
draw is complete. Resident hunters applying in the 2024 draw should note that 5 licences will be
available in southern island portion of the Grey Islands, CMA 71 A (Bell Island).
Advisory
Quotas for some Caribou Management Areas (CMA) may change pending aerial census work being
carried out during the winter
of 2023/24. Changes will be announced through a Departmental News Release prior to the big game
licence draw. News releases
are available online at https://www.gov.nl.ca/releases/
Black Bear
Black Bear Management Area Black Bear Season Dates

(BBMA) Fall 2024
1 ST. ANTHONY Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
2 PORTLAND CREEK Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
3 HARBOUR DEEP Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
4 TAYLOR’S BROOK Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
5 TROUT RIVER Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
6 CORNER BROOK Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
7 SOUTH BROOK Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
8 ST. GEORGES Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
9 ANGUILLE MTNS. Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
10 PORT AUX BASQUES Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
11 DASHWOODS Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
12 BUCHANS Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
13 GAFF TOPSAILS Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
14 BAIE VERTE Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
15 TWIN LAKES Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
16 SANDY BADGER Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
17 MILLERTOWN Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
18 GRANITE LAKE Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
19 GREY RIVER WEST Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
20 ROUND POND Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
21 RATTLING BROOK Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
22 LEWISPORTE Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
23 BONAVISTA NORTH Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
24 NORTH WEST GANDER Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
25 BAY D’ESPOIR Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
26 JUBILEE LAKE Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
27 TERRA NOVA Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
28 BLACK RIVER Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
29 BONAVISTA PEN. Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
30 BURIN PEN. KNEE Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
31 PLACENTIA Closed
32 CAPE SHORE Closed
33 SALMONIER Closed
34 BAY DE VERDE Closed
35 ST JOHN’S Closed
36 SOUTHERN SHORE Closed
37 GREY RIVER EAST Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
38 BURIN PEN. FOOT Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
39 CLOUD RIVER Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
40 CONCHE Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
41 SHEFFIELD LAKE Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
42 GAMBO Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
43 PORT AU PORT Closed
44 BELLEVUE Closed
45 TEN MILE LAKE Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
47 RANDOM ISLAND Sept. 14 – Nov. 10
Spring Seasons 2024: May 1 to July 15
Bear Management Areas (BMAs) correspond to Moose Management Areas (MMAs) sub-areas do not
apply to black bear hunting.
Licences in BMA 2 are valid in MMAs 2A and 2B. Licences in BMA 5 are valid in MMA 5A.
A valid black bear licence may be used for both the spring and fall 2024 season.
Bag limits remain at two black bears per licence. Hunters may either harvest two bears in spring, two
in fall, or one in each season.
Female bears (sows) with cubs may not be harvested.
Black bear hunters may apply for additional licences if they wish to harvest more than two black bears.
The fall bow hunting season on the Island of Newfoundland begins on August 31, 2024 (Note: this
does not include cross bows). There is no preseason bow hunt for the spring season.
Licenced black bear hunters are permitted to trap black bears using Aldrich foot snares or similar
devices (designed to capture and hold bears by the foot) set in a covered “cubby set”. The set must be
checked daily and clearly marked with a warning sign indicating that a bear snaring device is set in the
cubby.
Black bear hunters must possess a valid big game black bear licence and a valid trapping licence to set
foot hold trapping devices for black bear.
Note that for licencing purposes for the 2024 spring Black Bear season, individuals who possess a
2023-24 General Trapper’s Licence and a 2024 Black Bear Licence will be permitted to use Aldrich
foot holding traps or similar devices for harvesting Black bear. A person who intends on using these
trapping devices during the 2024 fall Black Bear season will be required to purchase a 2024-25
General Trapper’s Licence which will be available during the normal trapper application/licence
processing period in July.
Apply for your 2024 Resident Black Bear licence online by visiting wildlife.gov.nl.ca.
Small Game
Willow and Rock Ptarmigan (combined)
Area Shooting Snaring Bag/Possession

Limits
Avalon/Swift Sept 21– Oct Bag Limit 6,

Current Nov 10, 05/24- not more than 3
2024 Mar rock ptarmigan
09/25
Possession 12,
not more than 6
rock ptarmigan
Burin Sept 21- CLOSED Bag Limit 6,

Nov 10, not more than 3
2024 rock ptarmigan
Possession 12,
not more than 6
rock ptarmigan
The Topsails Sept 21- Oct Bag Limit 6,

Nov 17, 05/24- not more than 3
09/25
Possession 12,
not more than 6
rock ptarmigan
Remainder of Sept 21- Oct Bag Limit 12,

Island Dec 1, 05/24- not more than 6
09/25
Possession 24,
not more than 12
rock ptarmigan
Note:
Bell Island is closed to snaring of ptarmigan.

Hunters must possess a Ptarmigan Shooting Licence in order to harvest ptarmigan by shooting.
Photo by Mike McGrath: Willow Ptarmigan(L) and Rock Ptarmigan (R)
Ruffed and Spruce Grouse
Zone Shooting Season Snaring Season Daily Bag/ Possession Limit
Island of Newfoundland Sept 21–Dec 22/24 Oct 05/24-Mar 09/25 20/40
Snowshoe Hare
Area Shooting Snaring Possession Limit
Great Island Oct 05-Dec 22, 2024 Oct 05-Dec 22, 40

2024
Little Bay Islands Oct 05-Nov 03, 2024 Oct 05-Nov 03, 40
2024
Bell Island CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED
Remainder of Oct 05/24-Mar 09/25 Oct 05/24-Mar 40

Island 09/25
Note: Bell Island is closed to shooting and snaring of snowshoe hare.
Red Squirrel
Area Shooting Snaring Possession Limit
Great Island Oct 05-Dec 22, 2024 N/A N/A
Little Bay Islands Oct 05-Nov 3, 2024 N/A N/A
Bell Island CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED
Remainder of Oct 05/24-Mar 09/25 N/A N/A

Island
Labrador
Moose
Black Bear
Small Game
Caribou Conservation and Management
Moose
Moose Management Areas Season Dates Either Sex Quota

(Labrador) Change
2024-25
48 Wabush September 14 – March 9 5
49 Lower Mecatina September 14 – March 9 10
50 Natashquan September 14 – March 9 5
51 Baikie Lake September 14 – March 9 15
52 Grand River September 14 – March 9 30
53 Muskrat Falls September 14 – March 9 40 -5
54 Grand Lake September 14 – March 9 35
57 Paradise River September 14 – March 9 30
58 Alexis River September 14 – March 9 35
59 Upper Kenamu September 14 – March 9 15
60 Upper Mecatina September 14 – March 9 10
84 Traverspine September 14 – March 9 25
85 Snegamook September 14 – March 9 10
86 St. Augustin September 14 – March 9 5
87 Eagle Plateau September 14 – March 9 10
90 Mokami September 14 – March 9 5
93 Straits September 14 – March 9 25 +10
94 Atikonak September 14 – March 9 20
95 Churchill Falls North September 14 – March 9 10
96 Shallow Lake September 14 – March 9 5
Total 345 +5
Note: An additional 25 licences are assigned to moose management areas 88, 89, 91, and 92 and issued by
the Nunatsiavut Government. Non-beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement are
required to get permission to access Labrador Inuit Lands unless your interests are accommodated under
the Agreement.
* Bow hunting begins August 31, 2024 (Note: this does not include cross bows).
Black Bear
Black Bear Management Area Spring 2024 Season Fall 2024 Season
200 Labrador April 1, 2024 to July 13, 2024 August 10, 2024 to November
30, 2024
Regulations
A valid black bear licence may be used for both the spring and fall 2024 season.
Bag limits remain at two black bears per licence. Hunters may either harvest two bears in spring, two
in fall, or one in each season.
Female bears (sows) with cubs may not be harvested.
Black bear hunters may apply for additional licences if they wish to harvest more than two black bears.
There is no preseason bow hunt for black bears in Labrador during either the spring or fall season.
Licenced black bear hunters are permitted to trap black bears using Aldrich foot snares or similar
devices (designed to capture and hold bears by the foot) set in a covered “cubby set”. The set must be
checked daily and clearly marked with a warning sign indicating that a bear snaring device is set in the
cubby.
Black bear hunters must possess a valid big game black bear licence and a valid trapping licence to set
foot hold trapping devices for black bear.
Note that for licencing purposes for the 2024 spring Black Bear season, individuals who possess a
2023-24 General Trapper’s Licence and a 2024 Black
Bear Licence will be permitted to use Aldrich foot holding traps or similar devices for harvesting Black
bear. A person who intends on using these trapping devices during the 2024 fall Black Bear season
will be required to purchase a 2024-25 General Trapper’s Licence which will be available during the
normal trapper application/licence processing period in July.
Apply for your 2024 Resident Black Bear licence online by visiting wildlife.gov.nl.ca.
Labrador Inuit Settlement Area
Non-beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement are required to get permission from the
Nunatsiavut Government to access Labrador Inuit Lands unless your interests are accommodated under
the Agreement.
Small Game
Species
Management Zone Shooting Season Snaring Season Bag/Possession Limits
Ptarmigan Oct 01/24-Apr Oct 1/24- Mar 25 / 50

20/25 31/25
All of Labrador
Ruffed and Spruce Grouse 25 / 50

(combined)
Oct 01/24-Apr Oct 1/24- Mar
Labrador Southern Zone 20/25 31/25
Labrador Northern Zone Oct 01/24-Apr Oct 1/24- Mar No limit

20/25 31/25
Snowshoe Hare Oct 01/24-Apr Oct 1/24- Mar No Limit

20/25 31/25
All of Labrador
Arctic Hare Oct 01/24-Apr Oct 1/24- Mar No Limit

20/25 31/25
All of Labrador
Porcupine Oct. 1/24 to Mar. N/A 1/1

31/25
All of Labrador
Red Squirrel Oct 1/24 – Apr N/A No Limit

20/25
All of Labrador
Note: Hunters must possess a Ptarmigan Shooting Licence in order to harvest ptarmigan by shooting.
Labrador Inuit Settlement Area
Non-beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement are required to get permission from the
Nunatsiavut Government to access Labrador Inuit Lands unless your interests are accommodated under
the Agreement.
Akami-Uapishkᵁ-
KakKasuak-Mealy
Mountains National Park
Reserve
For 2024-25, small game,

waterfowl hunting and fur-
bearer trapping will continue
to be permitted within the
national park reserve
boundary under the
authority of a valid provincial
licence. For more
information concerning
other activities inside the
national park reserve
boundary, please consult the
Parks Canada website,
www.parkscanada.gc.ca or
contact Parks Canada
Western Newfoundland and
Labrador Field Unit
(709)458-2417 or email:
info@pc.gc.ca
Caribou Conservation and Management
Newfoundland and Labrador is home to four of 12 nationally significant caribou populations in Canada.
These include:
Newfoundland Caribou – Island population (population 27,115 in 2021);

George River Caribou Herd – part of the Eastern Migratory Caribou unit (population 7,200 in 2022);
Torngat Mountains Caribou (population 1,326 in 2017); and
Boreal Caribou populations of southern Labrador (combined population of fewer than 4,000 caribou
across five local populations).
Labrador’s Boreal Caribou – known as the Lac Joseph, Red Wine Mountains (Dominion Lake) and Mealy
Mountain (Joir River) populations – are considered ‘threatened’ and have been protected under the
Newfoundland and Labrador Endangered Species Act since July 2002. All Boreal Caribou in Canada have
been listed as ‘threatened’ under the federal Species at Risk Act since June 2003.
Given their scattered distribution across the forested landscape of southern Labrador, it is difficult to
conduct surveys to estimate population numbers for Boreal Caribou herds. As part of the four-year
Boreal Caribou Conservation Agreement with Environment and Climate Change Canada, the province
has been working to monitor the trends in each of the five local populations. Adult survival, calf
recruitment rates, and ongoing reports of harvesting indicate that caribou numbers in the Lac Joseph, Joir
River and Mealy Mountain caribou ranges are declining. The Red Wine Mountains and Dominion Lake
populations have been stable or growing over the past four years, but remain very small.
Unlike the situation in almost all other areas of Canada, Boreal Caribou habitat in Labrador is relatively
undisturbed, and the combined level of human disturbance across all ranges is only two per cent. The
decline and continued low numbers of these caribou populations is driven by natural threats, combined
with unsustainable and unsanctioned harvesting.
George River Caribou Update
The latest population estimate survey of the George River Caribou Herd (GRCH) was conducted in July
2022 by the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture (FFA), in partnership with the Quebec
Ministry of Wildlife, Forests and Parks, Innu Nation, and Nunatsiavut Government. The findings estimate
the population to be 7,200 animals. Overall, the population has declined by 11 per cent since 2020, and by
more than 99 per cent since 2001. Although overall population size decreased, the adult proportion of the
population increased an average of seven per cent per year from 2018 to 2022, which is cause for
optimism for the persistence and eventual recovery of this vital caribou herd.
A classification survey was completed in October 2023, estimating that 7 of every 10 adult female caribou
were with a calf. This was the highest calf recruitment measured for the George River caribou in over 50
years. Recruitment in migratory caribou – or more simply, the number of new calves added annually to the
population – varies from year to year. There is no guarantee high calf production will continue again the
following year. Any true indication of recovery will require several years of consistent improvement in the
survival levels of calves and adults; but this is a promising sign.
In 2013, the department issued a hunting ban on the George River Caribou Herd in Labrador for
conservation purposes, as the population had drastically declined from greater than 750,000 caribou in
the early 1990s to just 27,600 animals in 2012. Despite the ban, some harvesting has continued each year
through to the present, contributing to the further decline of the population.
The 2022 population estimate of 7,200 caribou is still less than one per cent the herd’s historic
abundance. Research and monitoring of the George River Herd is extensive, and the population estimates
are highly accurate. The positive findings over the past 3 years should be viewed as an opportunity to fully
support the hunting ban to allow the herd to recover. Maintaining the hunting ban, along with careful
stewardship, is essential at this critical point in the caribou population cycle. If adult survival remains
adequate and environmental conditions continue to favour calf production, the herd will have its first
opportunity to recover from these historic lows. The next population estimate will be in July 2024.
Coyotes and Wolves
ATTENTION HUNTERS
It is punishable by law;
to chase or harass any wildlife with any aircraft, motor vehicle, boat, snow machine or all-
terrain vehicle of any type;
to hunt any wildlife with, or possess any loaded firearm on, any aircraft, motor vehicle, snow
machine or all-terrain vehicle of any type. Such vehicles may be used for transportation to and
from a hunting area and for transporting any game taken, except where restrictions apply to
the use of all-terrain vehicles.
See the Hunting Code of Ethics for more reminders.
Species Zone Shooting Season Bag Limit
Coyote Province-wide* Sept 14/24 – July 15/25 N/A
Wolf Island* Oct 15/24 – Mar 31/25 1
Labrador Nov 1/24 – Mar 31/25

South**
Oct 15/24 – Mar 31/25
Labrador North
*Centre-fire rifles not greater than .225 calibre may be used except during the open big game moose
season (September 14 – December 31, 2024) on the Island portion of the province for wolf and coyote.
**Labrador South Wolf Shooting Zone coincides Labrador South Trapping Zone.
Note: In Labrador, all wolf skulls must be submitted to the Wildlife Division office in Goose Bay no later
than May 15, 2025. As well, hunters are being asked to submit the entire carcass of a wolf or coyote to the
nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office. A $25 fee will be paid to each hunter or
trapper for submitting carcasses.
Wolf and Coyote-Wolf Hybrid Carcass Collection Program
The occurrence of the gray wolf (from Labrador) has been documented by Department of Fisheries,
Forestry and Agriculture on the Island of Newfoundland. To assist with further monitoring of the
occurrence and distribution of coyotes or wolves within the province (including Labrador), hunters and
trappers are being asked to submit the entire canid carcass to the nearest Department of Fisheries,
Forestry and Agriculture office. A $25 fee will be paid to each hunter or trapper for submitting carcasses.
Each carcass will be tagged with a unique registration number that is used to identify where and when the
animal was harvested and to assist the Department with further genetic analysis work. Harvesters will be
required to provide their full name and address for payment and administrative purposes. For more
information please contact your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office.
Addition efforts to encourage hunters and trappers to submit canid carcasses is also being supported by
the Newfoundland and Labrador Outfitters Association (NLOA). The NLOA’s Canid Incentive Program
works in conjunction with the Wildlife Division’s Carcass Collection Program. Hunters and trappers who
submit canid carcasses to the Wildlife Division may be eligible for an additional $35 from the NLOA by
submitting harvest information directly to the NLOA. Forms for this program are available at the time of
dropping off canid carcasses to your nearest Forestry/Wildlife Office.
General Information for Trappers
Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS)
The AIHTS sets performance standards for traps used in the harvest of eight species of furbearers in
Newfoundland and Labrador. All trappers are required to use trap types for certain species that have been
regulated for use under the Agreement. To see a list of traps currently certified for Newfoundland and
Labrador check the Fur Bearing Animals and Coyote Trapping and Shooting Order, Newfoundland and
Labrador see here.
ONGOING RESEARCH ON HUMANE KILLING NECK SNARES FOR CANIDS
On behalf of Canadian provinces and territories, the Trap Research and Development Committee (TRDC)
of the Fur Institute of Canada coordinates various activities to determine whether killing and restraining
trapping methods, as defined in the AIHTS, are in compliance with the established animal welfare criteria
relevant to trapping twelve Canadian wild furbearers. Part of this effort is dedicated toward continuous
refinement of trapping systems and field systems for enhanced animal welfare. A current initiative has
been the evaluation of various designs of killing neck snares for canids (coyote, wolf) to evaluate their
level of effectiveness in terms of animal welfare and capture performance. The work of the TRDC has led
to the development of the best trap design and trapping techniques for canids using killing neck snares.
Current guidance on the best snare design can be found here: Certified Traps | Fur Institute of Canada
Notices
Breakaway Devices
Current best practices involving the use of breakaway devices being added to neck snares will become
mandatory on the island of Newfoundland starting in the 2025-26 season for trapping terrestrial
furbearers such as lynx, fox, coyote and wolf. These measures are being implemented to reduce incidental
captures of moose and caribou. These measures are being announced now to provide trappers with
ample opportunity to modify existing snares or replace equipment as necessary. More information is
available in the Trapping Practices to Avoid Non-Target Species section.
Trapper Education Course
All new trappers must complete the Trapper Education Course. For information on courses to be held
in your area, contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Trappers Association by phone at 709.691.0268
or by email at nltrappers@hotmail.com. Course fees: Adults $150, Age 17 and under $80.
There is no age restriction for participation in the Trapper Education Course; however, minors must
provide a consent form and/or be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
If you complete a trapper education course after August 20, 2024 you are not guaranteed to receive a
trapper’s licence for the 2024-25 season.
Only licenced trappers may harvest furbearers and participate in trapping activities.
Newfoundland and Labrador Trappers Association (NLTA)
The NLTA welcomes new members and invites existing members to renew their memberships. A one-year
membership costs $30. For further information, contact the NLTA at P.O. Box 215, Chapel Arm, NL, A0B
1L0, by phone at 709.691.0268 or by email at nltrappers@hotmail.com
The NLTA’s next annual general meeting will be held at the Mt. Peyton Hotel on April 6, 2024.
Beaver
Beaver trapline boundaries and availability information is now available online at the following link:
https://www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/public-education/wildlife/trapping/maps/
Beaver are managed through a trapline system on the Island of Newfoundland. Only trappers that
have been approved to hold a trapline can legally be issued a licence to trap them. If you do not hold a
trapline currently and wish to be placed on a priority list should one become vacant, or are interested
in holding one of the currently vacant traplines, please submit your request to the Wildlife Division
(attention: Beaver Trapline).
Beaver trappers are required to harvest a minimum of five beavers per season unless justification is
presented otherwise. If not carried out, the trapline may be cancelled and assigned to another trapper.
Should a beaver trapper choose not to harvest beaver on their trapline due to low population levels,
provide this information in writing to the Wildlife Division (attention: Beaver Trapline). Regulations
permit the temporary closure of a trapline to allow the population to recover. Unless it can be shown
that a trapper was responsible for the population decline, the trapper who held the trapline prior to
closure will have first priority once it reopens.
A harvest of five beaver does not necessarily reflect proper utilization of the trapline. Trappers are
advised that an appropriate harvest equates to one beaver per active beaver lodge on their trapline.
High beaver densities and increasing problem complaints may result in cancellation of a trapline if
sufficient numbers of animals are not harvested.
Beaver trappers are reminded that each year many complaints are received about damaged property,
flooded culverts and roadways and the presence of beavers in water supplies. Nuisance beavers must
often be removed in the spring and summer when pelts are not prime. Beaver trappers are asked to
focus efforts on these potential problem areas if they are on their trapline.
Pelt stamping will continue to be delivered through Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
offices in an effort to accommodate trappers, particularly those living in remote areas. Regulations
require that all beaver be pelted and stamped by fourteen days after the season closes.
Beaver trappers are responsible for completing and submitting the Beaver Data Information Form
enclosed with your licence. Send them to the Wildlife Division (attention: Beaver Trapline).
It is illegal for registered beaver trappers to accept beavers caught by someone else from a trapline
that is not your own. This jeopardizes the management strategy for beavers. General trappers must
surrender accidentally caught beavers to the registered trapline owner or a Department of Fisheries,
Forestry and Agriculture office.
Lynx Skins and Carcasses
On the Island of Newfoundland, all lynx harvested during an open season must be registered at a
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office. Skins must be stamped by February 10,
2025.
On the Island of Newfoundland, all lynx (pelt and carcass) trapped accidentally during the closed
season or in a closed area must be turned into a Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
office within seven days of capture.
Wolves
Labrador trappers are required to submit either the entire skull or lower jawbone of harvested wolves.
The information gathered will aid in better understanding the biology of wolves. These can be submitted
to your nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture or Wildlife Division office. Contact the
Wildlife Division office in Happy Valley-Goose Bay for more information. Skulls must be submitted by May
15, 2025.
Non-beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement are required to get permission to access
Labrador Inuit Lands unless your interests are accommodated under the Agreement.
Newfoundland Marten
To avoid conflicts with the vulnerable Newfoundland marten, best management practices outline the
techniques, trap types and areas where trapping can occur by categorizing various trap types
permitted in these areas. See Best Practices for Newfoundland Marten for approved methods.
Marten which are accidentally trapped or snared on the Island must be immediately turned over to
the nearest Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture office. Information on the date and
location of capture, along with the method of capture used, will be requested.
Application Deadlines
The is no deadline for receipt of general trapper’s or beaver trapline licence applications, however, to
receive a licence prior to the start of the trapping season applications and payments must be received
by August 31, 2024. Applications and payments received after these dates will be processed as soon
as possible.
Beaver trapline licence renewals must be received by October 7, 2024 or your trapline may be
forfeited.
How Do I Get A Licence?
Trapper licence renewal is now available as an online service only. Eligible trappers must have an online
account to log into the Department’s Wildlife Information Management System (WIMS) portal. For
further information about our online services, please contact the Wildlife Division at 709-637-2025/709-
729-2630 or by email at wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca. Please include your name, NL Driver’s Licence/NL
Photo ID and telephone number in your email correspondence.
When applying and providing payment please allow 48 hours for payments to go through. If you are
concerned about your payment going through please contact the Wildlife Division through the means
listed above.
Trapping in the Labrador Inuit Settlement Area (LISA)
The Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement specifies that before a non-Inuit resident of Labrador residing
outside of LISA can trap in LISA, they must demonstrate that they held a commercial trapping license on
June 25, 2001 and trapped there traditionally. Non-Inuit living inside LISA must have held a commercial
trapping license on December 1, 2005. Both these groups of non-Inuit may harvest furbearers in
Labrador Inuit Lands without the consent of the Nunatsiavut Government.
Upon the recommendation of the Torngat Wildlife and Plants Co-management Board, the Department of
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture may issue a commercial trapping license to other individuals to trap in
the LISA as set out in the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement. These individuals are required to seek
the consent of the Nunatsiavut Government to access Labrador Inuit Lands. Please refer to the section
entitled “Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement” in this guide.
Online Services
Many of the services provided by the Wildlife Division, such as submitting trapping licence applications
and payments, and submitting licence returns can be accessed online at www.wildlife.gov.nl.ca provided
that you have your login identification and password.
Firearms Regulations for Trappers

In Labrador, holders of a general trapper’s licence may use firearms to harvest furbearers during the
trapping season.
On the Island of Newfoundland, Trappers who hold a valid trapping licence may also shoot lynx, fox
and coyote (including wolf-coyote hybrids) using centerfire rifles up to .225 calibre during the period
when trapping seasons for these species are open except during the big game moose season
(September 14 – December 31, 2024) on the island.
Holders of trapper’s licence are also permitted to use a rim-fire rifles of not greater than .22 calibre to
dispatch live furbearers caught in traps.
Trappers can only use firearms if they have completed the Trapper Education Course and the
Canadian Firearms Safety and Hunter Education Course, have in their possession an Outdoor
Identification Card, and possess a valid General Trapper’s Licence. Click here for more information
concerning Youth Trapping Licences.
Closed Areas
All Provincial and National Parks and listed Ecological Reserves are closed to trapping except as permitted
by specific regulation or Land Claims Agreement. See here for additional areas that are closed to trapping.
For specific boundary descriptions, contact the Wildlife Division office.
Fur Sales and Permits
Fur Export Licences must be acquired by trappers who send furs directly to companies, agents, or buyers
outside the province. A Fur Export Permit is also required for each shipment. Licences are available from
the Wildlife Division. Permits are available at Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture offices.
Trappers typically sell their pelts at fur auctions. Top and average prices for well prepared, seasoned skins
are usually higher when goods are sold by auction as opposed to a fur buyer.
Fur Buyer Agents
Fur Harvesters Auction Inc.

Newfoundland Agent
Sheldon Mosier12 Walsh’s Avenue
102 Fudges Rd. Corner Brook
A2H 2C8
Phone: 632-3665
Fur Harvesters Auction Inc.

Labrador Agent
Jim Shouse
P.O. Box 483, Stn. C
Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL
A0P 1C0
Phone: 896-1036
Trappers providing furs to auctions/agents should note that:
Fur dealers may offer cash advances to trappers submitting furs for auction.
When shipping to Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. use the addresses as listed above. Some trappers
choose to ship their fur direct to the mainland. There is no advantage to this practice since: a)
commission rates are the same (11%) whether you ship direct or via a local agent; and b) persons who
ship direct must go through the trouble of obtaining an export licence. Therefore, it is more
convenient to ship via the local fur auction agents.
If you choose to ship directly to the mainland to a fur auction or fur buyer, please remember that an
export licence is required for each shipment. It is an offense under the Wild Life Act and Regulations
to ship furs directly out of the province without an export licence.
When dealing with auction companies/agents or buyers within the province, trappers need only to
maintain their own individual records of furs being processed for auction.
Trapping Seasons and Zones
Island
Labrador
Island
SPECIES Season Dates
Beaver Oct 20/24 – April 15/25
Muskrat Oct 20/24 – Mar 15/25
Otter Oct 20/24 – Mar 15/25
Mink Nov 1/24 – Feb 28/25
Coyote Oct 20/24 – Feb 1/25
Fox, Coloured Oct 20/24 – Feb 1/25
Fox, White Oct 20/24 – Feb 1/25
Lynx Zone A-January 1 – February 1, 2025
Zone B- January 15– February 1, 2025
Wolf Oct 20/24 – Feb 1/25
Ermine (weasel) Oct 20/24 – Feb 28/25
Squirrel Oct 20/24 – Feb 28/25
*Trappers who hold a valid trapping licence may also shoot lynx, fox and coyote using rifles up to .225
calibre during the period when trapping seasons for these species are open except during the big game
moose season (September 14 – December 31, 2024) on the island of Newfoundland.
LYNX ZONE A: NORTHERN REGION AND LYNX ZONE B: SOUTHERN REGION
More detailed descriptions of lynx zones are available in the Fur Bearing Animals and Coyote Trapping
and Shooting Order, Newfoundland and Labrador
Labrador
SPECIES Labrador North Labrador South
Beaver Oct 15/24 – May 31/25 Oct 15/24 – May 31/25
Muskrat Oct 5/24 – May 31/25 Oct 15/24 – May 31/25
Otter Oct 15/24 – March 31/25 Oct 15/24 – March 20/25
Mink Nov 1/24 – March 31/25 Nov 1/24 – March 20/25
Coyote Oct 15/24 – March 31/25 Nov 1/24 – March 20/25
Fox-Coloured Oct 15/24 – March 31/25 Nov 1/24 – March 20/25
Fox-White Oct 15/24 – May 31/25 Nov 1/24 – March 20/25
Lynx Oct 15/24 – March 31/25 Nov 1/24 – March 20/25
Wolf Oct 15/24 – April 30/25 Nov 1/24 – April 30/25
Ermine (Weasel) Oct 15/24 – March 31/25 Nov 1/24 – March 20/25
Squirrel Oct 15/24 – March 31/25 Nov 1/24 – March 20/25
Marten Oct 15/24 – March 31/25 Nov 1/24 – March 20/25
Fisher No Open Season No Open Season
Wolverine No Open Season No Open Season
Labrador North Fur Zone: All that area of Labrador, including offshore islands, lying north of a line
commencing at a point on the coast at 54 degrees north latitude, then west along 54 degrees north
latitude to its intersection with 62 degrees west longitude, then north along 62 degrees west longitude to
55 degrees north latitude and then west along 55 degrees north latitude to its intersection with the
Labrador – Quebec border.
Labrador South Fur Zone: All the remainder of Labrador not described in the Labrador North Fur Zone.
For information respecting the harvesting of fur-bearers in the Labrador Inuit Settlement Area please
refer to the section entitled Trapping in the Labrador Inuit Settlement Area (LISA)
Akami-Uapishkᵁ-
KakKasuak-Mealy
Mountains National Park
Reserve
For 2024-25, small game,

waterfowl hunting and fur-
bearer trapping will
continue to be permitted
within the national park
reserve boundary under
the authority of a valid
provincial licence. For
more information
concerning other activities
inside the national park
reserve boundary, please
consult the Parks Canada
website,
www.parkscanada.gc.ca or
contact Parks Canada
Western Newfoundland
and Labrador Field Unit
(709)458-2417 or email:
info@pc.gc.ca
Agreement on International Humane Trapping

Standards
Humane trapping is every trapper’s responsibility. It ensures that the taking of furbearers is conducted
with the least amount of stress to the target animal. All trappers have an ethical and legal responsibility to
select the most humane and efficient method possible to capture furbearers.
Newfoundland and Labrador has had regulated humane trapping standards since 1985. Requirements for
locking neck snares, prohibition against the use of serrated or tooth-edged traps, and drowner set
requirements for aquatic species are just a few examples of humane trap standards. However, to ensure
that our wild-caught furs could continue to be sold on the European markets, Canada, along with Russia
and the European Union (EU) signed the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards
(AIHTS). The Agreement sets performance standards for traps used in the harvest and control of 19
furbearer species. Eight (8) of these species exist in our province. These species are beaver, ermine
(weasel), coyote, lynx, marten, muskrat, otter, and wolf. The Agreement does not apply to mink, fox or
squirrel.
AIHTS Advisories
Leghold restraining traps include the modified versions (padded, laminated or offset) and the
conventional steel-jawed leghold traps. The use of all unmodified leghold restraining traps is
prohibited on land except for taking fox. Modified traps may continue to be used on land for taking
wolf and coyote, however only certified and approved leghold restraining traps may be used for lynx
as outlined here. When setting a drowner set for aquatic species, modified or conventional steel-
jawed traps are permitted.
There are no changes associated with neck snares.
Killing traps are generally referred to as the conibear body-gripping trap. In Newfoundland and
Labrador, only killing traps that meet AIHTS requirements and are certified are permitted for trapping
beaver, muskrat, otter, weasel and marten. Sufficient numbers of killing traps have not yet been
certified for wolf or coyote. Until then, trappers may continue to use traps currently permitted by
provincial legislation for those species.
Trappers should note that some traps, while not yet required in legislation, have already been certified
by species and should consider this when purchasing new traps.
For further information on the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standard’s Certified
Traps, check here.
To see a list of traps currently certified for Newfoundland and Labrador check the Fur Bearing Animals
and Coyote Trapping and Shooting Order, Newfoundland and Labrador, check here.
Best Management Practices for Newfoundland

Marten
Newfoundland Marten have recently been downlisted from Threatened to Vulnerable under the
Newfoundland and Labrador Endangered Species Act due to an increase in numbers and expanded
distribution over the last two decades. It is important that best management practices designed to
minimize the non-targeted mortality of marten remain in place at this time. These practices will help to
ensure that the species continues towards recovery while allowing time to develop a species and habitat
management plan for the future.
Category One Areas
In Category One areas, traps must be set in such a manner as to avoid the capture of non-target species,
specifically the Newfoundland Marten. This applies to the Pine Marten Study Area, Main River Study
Area, Little Grand Lake Wildlife Reserve (LGL) and the Glover Island Public Reserve. The LGL Provisional
Ecological Reserve is closed to all trapping except for beaver.
Prohibited Traps in this category would include:
All land-based traps (including leg hold and conibear sets on dry land).
All land-based locking neck snares (fox/lynx/coyote).
Note: Category One areas are closed to all small game snaring (including LGL Provisional Ecological
Reserve).
Table 1: Permitted Traps in Category One Areas
Trap Type and Target Species Regulated Setting Requirements
Beaver Conibear Trap jaws shall remain completely submerged

requiring target species to dive.
Beaver Submarine Cage Cage shall be completely submerged.
Beaver Snare Pole Snares shall be completely submerged.
Ermine (weasel) or Squirrel Rat Trap Victor Rat Trap, whether baited or not, shall be
completely enclosed inside a wooden box with a
1.5” hole at one end.
Fox or Coyote or Lynx Restraining Neck Snare Wire shall be 3/32” or greater.
A 360 degree swivel is required at the

attachment point.
The stop on the loop shall be fastened so that the

loop will close to a minimum 8” circumference.
The snare shall be fastened to an immovable

object, no drags.
The snare may be set with or without the use of

bait.
This is a live capture device and requires a 24

hour trap check.
Mink Conibear Floating Mink Box – Trap shall be set in the

entrance of a floating wooden box, whether or
not the trap is baited, and the entrance to the box
shall be completely submerged.
Otter or Mink or Muskrat Conibear Trap jaws shall be completely submerged

requiring target species to dive.
Otter or Mink or Muskrat Submarine Cage The cage shall be completely submerged.
Beaver or Otter or Muskrat or Mink Slide-lock The trap shall be a foothold type with a slide lock
Drowner attached.
The trap shall be placed at least five feet from the

shoreline or on a semi-submerged log with no
land-based access.
The water shall be sufficiently deep so as to

ensure drowning.
The trap may be set with or without the use of

bait.
Squirrel Pole Snares shall use 16 pound test snare wire

attached to a horizontal or leaning pole, snares
3/4”-1’’ above the pole and having a 1.5”- 1.75”
diameter loop. No bait shall be used.
Category Two Areas
Snares/traps found in this category acknowledge the potential for accidental harvest but mitigate for
marten mortality. This applies to the Red Indian Lake, Northwest Grand Lake, Terra Nova and
Charlottetown Enclave modified snaring and trapping areas (MSTA). Additional Category Two areas may
be considered by the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture in the future to help facilitate
marten recovery.
Prohibited Traps in this category would include: All land-based traps.
Table 2: Permitted Traps in Category Two Areas
Trap Type and Target Species Regulated Setting Requirements
All those listed in Table 1 All corresponding regulated setting requirements

in Table 1
Fox, Coyote or Lynx Killing Neck Snare The snare shall be equipped with lock. The snare
can be baited or not.
Category Three Areas
Category Three allows the use of all legal snaring/trapping devices, including those listed under
Categories One and Two, but also all other legal traps. Category Three areas would reflect all other
landbases not covered under Category One or Two.
Trapping Management Areas
Trapping Practices to Avoid Non-target Species
Responsible and humane harvest of furbearers is a primary objective for all trapping activities and is
guided by legislation and standards of conduct that have been developed over time with input of trappers
and wildlife managers. Whether your trapping pursuits involve setting snares for fox, coyote, wolf or lynx,
using body grippers for mink or marten (Labrador) or using water sets for aquatic furbearers, choosing the
appropriate location for your set is an important consideration to help avoid capturing animals that are
not legal to trap. Similar to Best Management Practices for Newfoundland Marten (page 43-44) there are
also a number of trap designs and/or adaptations to existing gear that trappers can use generally to avoid
accidental and sometimes lethal capture of non-target animals.
Additional guidance on best trapping practices and ways to avoid capture of non-target species can be
found here.
Break-away devices such as “S” or “J” hooks placed on fox,

coyote, lynx or wolf snares is an easy adaptation that
trappers who build their own snares can use to potentially
reduce capture of wildlife such as moose, caribou and black
bears or free ranging livestock. This is achieved by adding a
“J” hook to the base of a slide-lock or “S” hook to a cam type
lock or by adding a breakaway release ferrule (BAW) to the
end of snare. The S, J hook or BAW ferrule retains enough
strength to capture the intended animal but the strength of
larger animals will break the hook or breakaway ferrule and
allow them to escape relatively unharmed. Purchasing
snares constructed in this fashion from trapping suppliers is
widely available. Adding a stop to the snare so that it is still effective for capturing furbearers but allows a
moose or caribou’s leg to slip through is also beneficial. There is some variability in the cost and
effectiveness of break-away devices that trappers will need to consider, particularly for larger furbearers
such as wolves. The end result, however, is that these devices can make a difference towards protecting
wildlife or livestock that are not meant to be captured in the first place. Learn more about their use by
contacting trapping supply retailers, the Newfoundland and Labrador Trappers Association or the Wildlife
Division.
The table below summarizes results of current research by the Trap Research and Development Council
for guidance on appropriate breakaways to use for capturing target canids/felids but allowing the release
of moose and/or caribou.
“Contained” body gripper traps are very effective and, in certain circumstances, can be used to avoid non-
target animals. For example, body grippers set inside baited floating wooden boxes (mink box) work very
well for capturing mink over water and reduce the risk of trapping species such as the Newfoundland
Marten. Body gripper traps set inside a floating mink box also make it very difficult for domestic animals to
get into. Where there are no concerns for Newfoundland Marten, mink boxes set on land that have a
cover with a 2 ½ inch hole also become quite effective for reducing captures of other non-target animals.
Snare Wire Education
In 2023, Newfoundland marten was downlisted from Threatened to Vulnerable under the Newfoundland
and Labrador Endangered Species Act due to an increase in numbers and expanded distribution over the
last two decades. It is important that best management practices for snaring and trapping that were
designed to minimize the non-targeted mortality of marten remain in place at this time. These practices
help ensure that the species continues towards recovery while allowing time to advance a new species
and habitat management plan for the future.
The current legislation for small game snaring is also vital to the continued efforts for marten
recovery. Since the 2008-09 hunting season, 22-gauge brass wire and 6-strand picture cord replaced
stainless steel as the legal snare wire available for small game on the island of Newfoundland. These
provisions were implemented after considerable review by wildlife biologists and public input concerning
by-catch of non-target species, particularly the Newfoundland marten, and other incidental wildlife and
domestic animals. Field testing of these wire types confirmed they were effective in retaining hares at
least 75 per cent of the time. These wires will also release marten 90% of the time (Fisher and Twitchell
2004).
22-gauge brass wire appears to be the most commonly used wire type that is purchased by small game
hunters as opposed to 6-strand picture cord. A major concern with brass wire since its implementation
has been determining the difference in the quality of wire available on the market and what is sold as
snare wire by retailers throughout the province. Many 22-gauge brass wire manufacturers sell products
to wholesalers and retailers that do not necessarily meet minimum retention thresholds due to their
manufacturing properties.
For additional product manufacturing and supplier information of 22-gauge brass wire or six strand
picture cord, please contact the Wildlife Division at 709 637-2025.
The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture realizes the importance of small game snaring to
the hunting public and its history as part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s hunting heritage. Responsible
harvesting and snaring practices will help ensure that these activities continue for future generations. If
you have questions or would like more information please contact the Wildlife Division at 637-2025 or
wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca.
Closed Areas
Hunting is prohibited in Salmonier Nature Park, Pippy Park and all Provincial Parks throughout the
province, with the exception of waterway Provincial Parks. Hunting is prohibited in National Parks, except
as permitted by specific regulations or Land Claims Agreement. Hunting is prohibited in Migratory Bird
Sanctuaries and Seabird Ecological Reserves with the exception of Lawn Islands Archipelago Provisional
Ecological Reserve (migratory game bird hunting only). Unless otherwise indicated, all big game hunting
on the Island of Newfoundland and all moose hunting in Labrador is prohibited on offshore islands.
Special Notice
There are special conditions for the T’Railway Provincial Park; Hunting and trapping are both
prohibited inside the boundary of T ’Railway Provincial Park (this is generally defined as 25 feet from
each side of the centerline of the rail-bed in most areas). Hunting, trapping and snaring is prohibited
inside the boundary of the T’Railway Provincial Park. Hunters and trappers may transport firearms
under the authority of a valid hunting licence along the T’Railway Provincial Park, however, it is
unlawful to discharge a firearm or set traps inside the Park boundary.
Hunting is permitted within the Main River Waterway Provincial Park in accordance with permits
and licenses issued under the Wild Life Act or the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (Canada)
or regulations made under these acts.
Please contact Provincial Parks for more information at 709.637.2040 or info@parksnl.ca or visit
www.parksnl.ca
There are some Ecological and Wilderness Reserves which do not have prohibitions on hunting. These
include Watts Point Ecological Reserve, Table Point Ecological Reserve, Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel
Ecological Reserve, West Brook Ecological Reserve, Little Grand Lake Provisional Ecological Reserve, Bay
du Nord Wilderness Reserve and the Avalon Wilderness Reserve. A person who holds a valid big game
licence for a moose, caribou or black bear management area that is inside a Wilderness Reserve does not
require a Wilderness Reserve Entry Permit. Within Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, a permit is
required to access the Fossil Protection Zone. For more information, contact the Natural Areas Program
at (Tel) 709.637.4066 or naturalareas@gov.nl.ca or visit https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/natural-areas/
The following areas are also subject to hunting, shooting, snaring and/or trapping prohibitions (see maps
for further details):
Baccalieu Island Ecological Reserve (Map 1)

Closed to Shooting, Snaring and Trapping
Brunette Island, Fortune Bay (Map 2)

Burnt Cape Ecological Reserve (Map 3)

Closed to Shooting (except sea ducks
and murres), Snaring and Trapping
Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve (Map 10)

Carmanville Pond Closed Area (Map 17)

Closed to Shooting
Clarenville Canada Goose Area (Map 13)

Closed to Shooting
Codroy Valley Waterfowl Area (Map 26)

Closed to Shooting
Corduroy Brook, Grand Falls-Windsor Closed Area (Map 27)

Closed to Shooting
Cormack Closed Area

Closed to Shooting
Fortune Head Ecological Reserve (Map 21)

Foxtrap Closed Area (Map 24)

Closed to Shooting
Funk Island Ecological Reserve (Map 4)

Gannet Islands Ecological Reserve (Map 5)

Glover Island Public Reserve (see page 41)

Closed to all small game snaring. Trapping conditions apply, see Best Management Practices for
Newfoundland Marten
Great Southern Harbour Closed Area (Map 6)

Hare Bay Islands Ecological Reserve (Map 7)

Hawke Hill Ecological Reserve (Map 8)

King George IV Ecological Reserve (Map 9)

Kelly’s Island, Conception Bay (Map 25)

Closed to Shooting and Snaring
Lawn Islands Archipelago Provisional Ecological Reserve (Map 11)

Closed to Shooting (except migratory
game birds), Snaring and Trapping
Little Grand Lake Wildlife Reserve (see page 41)

Newfoundland Marten
Main River Study Area (see page 41)

Newfoundland Marten
Marshy Pond, Daniel’s Harbour Closed Area (Map 16)

Closed to Shooting
Massey Drive Local Development Area (Map 20)

Closed to Shooting
Middle Arm, Carmanville Closed Area (Map 14)

Closed to Shooting
Pine Marten Study Area (see page 41)

Newfoundland Marten
Reidville-Deer Lake Closed Area (Map 15)

Closed to Shooting
Saltwater Pond, Sweet Bay Closed Area (Map 19)

Closed to Shooting
Sandy Cove Ecological Reserve (Map 22)

St. George’s River, Stephenville Crossing Closed Area (Map 18)

Closed to Shooting
Winterland EcoMuseum (Map 23)

Closed to Shooting
Witless Bay Ecological Reserve (Map 12)

Map 1: Baccalieu Island Ecological

Reserve
Map 2: Brunette Island, Fortune Bay
Map 3: Burnt Cape Ecological Reserve
Map 4: Funk Island Ecological Reserve
Map 5: Gannet Islands Ecological

Reserve
Map 6: Great Southern Harbour
Map 7: Hare Bay Islands Ecological

Reserve
Map 8: Hawke Hill Ecological Reserve
Map 9: King George IV Ecological

Reserve
Map 10: Cape St. Mary’s Ecological

Reserve
Map 11: Lawn Islands Archipelago

Provisional Ecological Reserve
Map 12: Witless Bay Ecological Reserve
Map 13: Clarenville Canada Goose Area
Map 14: Middle Arm, Carmanville
Map 15: Reidville-Deer Lake
Map 16: Marshy Pond, Daniels Harbour
Map 17: Carmanville Pond
Map 18: St. George’s River Stephenville
Map 19: Saltwater Pond Sweet Bay
Map 20: Massey Drive
Map 21: Fortune Head Ecological

Reserve
Map 22: Sandy Cove Ecological Reserve
Map 23: Winterland EcoMuseum
Map 24: Foxtrap
Map 25: Kellys Island, Conception Bay
Map 26: Codroy Valley Waterfowl Area
Map 27: Corduroy Brook Grand Falls
Penalties for Wildlife Offences
Penalties for Offences Involving Moose or Caribou
The minimum penalties upon conviction for an offence relating to moose or caribou are:
a. for a first offence, a fine of $1,000 or imprisonment for not less than one month and the court shall
make an order prohibiting the person from holding a moose or caribou licence for a period of five
years;
b. for a second offence within five years, a fine of $3,000 and imprisonment for not less than one month
and the court may, depending upon the circumstances, permanently prohibit the person from holding
a moose or caribou licence;
c. wildlife, firearms, and in some cases, vehicles, may be forfeited.
Please read the Regulation Summaries for Big Game in Hunting and Trapping Guide carefully. If you are
not sure that your planned hunting methods are legal, contact a Department of Fisheries, Forestry and
Agriculture office. A mistake could cost you $1,000 and five years’ hunting privileges.
Penalties for Offences Involving Inland Fish
A person who contravenes a provision of or a requirement or obligation imposed upon him or her under
the Wild Life Act; contravenes an order made under the Wild Life Act; or fails to observe or fulfil a
condition attached to a licence or permit issued to him or her under the Wild Life Act that relates to fish is
guilty of an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not more than $5,000 or to
imprisonment for a term of not more than six months or to both the fine and imprisonment.
Penalties for Offences Involving Threatened and Endangered Species
Under the Endangered Species Act, a person who disturbs, harasses, injures, or kills an individual of a
species designated as threatened, endangered, or extirpated; or a person who captures, possesses, buys,
sells or trades a specimen of a species designated as threatened, endangered or extirpated or part of it
and anything derived from it; or a person who disturbs the residence of an individual of a species
designated as threatened, endangered or extirpated is liable:
a. for the first conviction, to a fine not less than $1,000 and not more than $50,000, or to imprisonment
for a term of not more than three months, or to both;
b. for a second conviction, to a fine of not less than $2,000 and not more than $100,000, or to
imprisonment for a term of not more than six months, or to both;
c. for a third and subsequent conviction, to a fine of not less than $4,000 and not more than $200,000, or
to imprisonment for a term of not more than 12 months, or to both.
Where a corporation is convicted of an offence, the corporation is liable:
a. for the first conviction, to a fine not less than $2,000 and not more than $100,000;
b. for a second conviction, to a fine not less than $4,000 and not more than $200,000; and
c. for a third and subsequent conviction, to a fine of not less than $8,000 and not more than $400,000.
Hunting in National Parks and National Historic Sites
It is illegal to hunt, traffic in, or possess wildlife taken in Gros Morne National Park, Terra Nova National
Park and Torngat Mountains National Park or in the National Historic Sites of L’Anse aux Meadows, Port
au Choix, Cape Spear, Castle Hill, and Signal Hill in Newfoundland and Labrador, except as permitted by
specific regulation or Land Claims Agreements. Beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims
Agreement and the Nunavik Inuit Land Claims Agreement have the right to harvest in the Torngat
Mountains National Park subject to the terms of these Agreements.
Persons convicted of hunting may face severe fines, prison sentences, a criminal record and/or other
sanctions. For information on National Park and National Historic Sites regulations please contact Parks
Canada.
To report emergencies and National Park violations on Parks Canada’s lands in Newfoundland and
Labrador call 1-877-852-3100.
Penalties for Offences Involving Migratory Game Birds
Penalties for offences under the Migratory Birds Convention Act state that every person or vessel that
contravenes any regulation is liable:
a. on conviction on indictment, to a fine of not more than $1,000,000 or to imprisonment for a term of
not more than three years, or to both; and
b. on summary conviction, to a fine of not more than $300,000 or to imprisonment for a term of not
more than six months, or to both.
Please contact the Canadian Wildlife Service for more information or to report illegal activity related to
endangered species or migratory birds.
Wildlife Information
Wildlife Diseases
Beaver Problem Mitigation
Etick Information
Wildlife Diseases
Guidance to Reduce Risk of COVID-19 When Handling Wildlife
Canada and the United States have recently reported the presence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes
COVID-19, in wild white-tailed deer, providing the first evidence that the virus can circulate in wild animal
populations. Studies have revealed that the virus has spread from humans to deer on multiple occasions,
with subsequent spread from deer to deer. To date, there has been no known transmission of SARS-CoV-2
from white-tailed deer to humans. However, there is potential risk that those in contact with infected deer
or carcasses could be exposed to the virus. Up-to-date vaccination remains one of the most effective ways
to help protect yourself, your family, and your community against COVID-19.
Currently there have been no known cases of SARS-CoV-2 in game species in Newfoundland and
Labrador and the susceptibility of other animals such as moose, caribou and other game species is
unknown in Canada. Efforts to monitor wildlife diseases, including SARS-CoV-2, are ongoing throughout
Canada.
Until more is known, to help protect yourself and reduce your risk while hunting or trapping, it is
recommended that you wear a well-fitting mask and practice good hand hygiene. Additional
recommendations for handling and dressing the carcass are available on the Government of Canada’s
Animals and COVID-19 webpage and on the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative’s COVID-
19 webpage.
Government of Canada – Animals and COVID-19: www.canada.ca/en/public-

health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks/animals-covid-19.html
Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative – COVID-19: www.cwhc-rcsf.ca/covid-19.php
Avian Influenza
Avian influenza, or “bird flu”, occurs in many strains and is a contagious viral infection that can affect a
variety of wild bird species and species of food producing birds as well as pet birds. The viruses are
classified into two categories, low pathogenicity and high pathogenicity viruses, depending on the severity
of the illness in birds.
Avian influenza viruses may, on rare occasions, infect humans through close contact with infected birds or
time spent in heavily contaminated environments. With the potential risk for human infection it is highly
recommended that people handling birds that may be infected with avian influenza wear protective
equipment such as face masks, goggles, gloves and boots.
Information regarding avian influenza from the Government of Canada can be found here.
Giardiasis
Also known as Beaver Fever is caused by a parasite: Giardia lamblia
Contracted through contact with mouth, usually by drinking contaminated water. Parasite is passed on via
feces of infected animals such as man and beaver. Disease may also be contracted by putting something in
your mouth that has come in contact with the parasite. Symptoms include diarrhea, cramps, upset
stomach. Can be prevented if you sterilize all drinking water while outdoors, properly clean uncooked
food, especially vegetables, and practice proper hygiene.
Lyme Disease
Bacteria: Borrelia burgdorferi
Contracted through bite of infected deer ticks. Symptoms include reddish “bulls-eye” rash around the bite,
nausea, dizziness, fatigue, memory loss, heart disease, temporary or chronic arthritis. Can be prevented if
you dress to minimize exposed flesh when traveling through heavy vegetation. Apply tick repellent to
clothing. Check for and remove ticks found on your body after outdoor excursions.
For more information regarding lyme disease can be found here.
Rabies
Virus: Rabies
Contracted through contact with saliva of infected animals through bites, scratches. Also contact with
mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth and nose. Symptoms include fever, headache, confusion, agitation,
and eventual fatal infection of brain and spinal cord. Usually fatal once first symptoms appear. Can be
prevented if you avoid contact with wild animals acting sick or strange. Keep pet vaccinations up to date.
See your physician immediately if bitten or scratched by any animal.
Trichinosis
Parasite: Trichinella
Contracted through eating raw or undercooked pork and wild game products, particularly bear, wild boar,
and seals infected with Trichinella. Symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, fever, muscle
pains. Death is possible in severe cases. Can be prevented if you cook meat products well. Clean meat
grinders and utensils thoroughly if you process your own meat. Avoid infecting pets by feeding them raw
meat.
Echinococcus
Parasite: Echinococcus
Contracted through contact with contaminated feces or eating raw or undercooked wild game products
infected with Echinococcus. Common symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, fever, muscle
pains while death is possible in severe cases. Can be prevented by cooking meat products well, washing
your hands after handling dogs and before handling food and cleaning meat grinders and utensils
thoroughly if you process your own meat. Avoid feeding pets raw meat or organs as this may cause
infection.
A recent study of Trichinella and Echinococcus in coyotes harvested in Newfoundland, by the University
of Saskatchewan, can be found here. Below are general precautions for hunters, trappers and the general
public.
Avoid contact with fecal material when handling and skinning coyote carcasses, traps and
contaminated soil.
Choose reliable sources of drinking water
Avoid feeding uncooked meat or organs from harvested big game to dogs
Consult a vet about regular deworming of dogs
Wash hands after handling pets and before handling food.Wash fruits and vegetables, including
berries, with clean water before eating
Always cook game meats to appropriate internal temperatures (at least 74 degrees C) before
consuming.
Curing (salting), drying, smoking or microwaving meats alone does not consistently kill Trichinella
Freezing wild game meats may not effectively kill all worms because some worm species that infect
wild game are freeze-resistant.
Clean meat grinders thoroughly after each use.
Tularemia
Bacterium: Francisella tularensis
Contracted through handling infected animal carcasses, especially rodents, rabbits, and hares. Also from
the bites of infected ticks and deerflies and by consuming contaminated food and water. Symptoms
include skin ulcers, swollen lymph glands, inflamed eyes, sore throat, pneumonia. Can be prevented if you
wear gloves when cleaning or handling animal carcasses, especially hares. Practice proper hygiene.
West Nile Virus
Virus: west nile virus
Contracted through mosquito bites. Also direct contact with the blood of infected animals. Symptoms
include fever, headache, body aches. May develop into lethal encephalitis, or swelling of the brain. Can be
prevented if you wear gloves when cleaning game and cook all meat thoroughly. Reduce mosquito bites by
wearing protective clothing and using insect repellents.
More information regarding West Nile Disease can be found here.
Wildlife Diseases: Important Considerations for Human Health and Food

Safety
A study summary for foxes and lynx harvested in Nunatsiavut and Western and Central Labrador by the
University of Saskatchewan, can be found here.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HEALTH RISKS FOR HUNTERS AND TRAPPERS CAN BE FOUND
HERE.
Migratory Game Bird Hunting
The Canadian Wildlife Service of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) are responsible for
migratory game bird management and have highlighted several important considerations for migratory
gamebird hunting in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL).
Modernization of Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations
A free Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit for minors (under 18 years of age) has been introduced. This
initiative was suggested by hunters, and will encourage younger hunters to hunt waterfowl with their
mentor without the cost of having to purchase a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit.
There are also new provisions that allow legally harvested waterfowl to be transported with either a fully
feathered wing or head to be used for species identification. This change provides hunter’s choice on how
they field dress birds for transportation.
Waterfowl that are preserved in a location outside of the hunting area do not count towards the
possession limit. Preserved means eviscerated and plucked, or edible portions removed, and then frozen,
made into sausage, cooked dried, canned or smoked.
For Murres, the possession limit applies to all murres including those that have been preserved.
Under the Migratory Birds Regulations, it is prohibited to abandon migratory game bird meat harvested
under a migratory game bird hunting permit, and there are rules surrounding the gifting of migratory
game bird meat to another person or the holder of a charity permit.
For more information on the modernized Migratory Birds Regulations please consult the ECCC web site
Hunting regulations summary for migratory birds: Newfoundland and Labrador – Canada.ca
If you have questions on the Migratory Birds Regulations, you may contact the Canadian Wildlife Service
at enviroinfo@ec.gc.ca or to speak to someone please call toll free 1-800-668-6767.
REPORTING BANDS
We remind hunters that it is important to report any band found on a migratory bird by entering its
number on reportband.gov. Recovered banding data is essential for many conservation projects, as well as
for setting waterfowl hunting regulations and understanding how diseases like Avian Influenza and Avian
Cholera affect waterfowl populations.
AVIAN INFLUENZA
Hunter Safety
Avian influenza has been documented in waterfowl and other gamebirds throughout Atlantic Canada,
including strains that are highly pathogenic to both wild and domestic birds. Hunters should consult
Public Health Agency of Canada’s “Recommendations for Hunters of Wild Birds and Other Susceptible
Wildlife” before handling and consuming wild birds. Hunters should not harvest or consume birds found
dead or that look sick. Hunters should cook game meats thoroughly before consumption. There is no
evidence to suggest that fully cooked game meat, organs, or eggs are a source of avian influenza infection
for people.
Use of Retrieving Dogs
Standing advice prepared by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation, and endorsed by U.K.
Governments, is that retrieving dogs are not at any particular risk from bird flu but as a precaution do not
allow dogs to eat any wild birds found dead and do not feed uncooked birds to animals. Well cooked birds
can be safely consumed by humans and animals alike. Dogs are known to have contracted certain strains
of flu and therefore precautions are warranted. Dog owners should prevent contact with sick or dead
birds that were not harvested and should as a safety precaution limit the amount of time that dogs are
interacting with retrieved birds. Owners should prevent contact between their dogs and wild bird feces,
to the extent possible.
Export of Migratory Game Birds
As of 2024-02-13, there is one primary control zone in Atlantic Canada (near Bridgewater Nova Scotia).
However, hunters that are transporting birds in Canada should check the map on the CFIA website
regularly as control zones may change.
On September 2, 2022, US Department of Agricultrue Animal and Plant Health Inspection Serivce (USDA
APHIS) issued a stakeholder alert implementing restrictions on hunter harvested wild bird
meat/carcasses from all of Canada, regardless of province, due to the risk of transmitting highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). HPAI is an extremely infectious poultry disease spreading throughout
North America, primarily by wild birds. APHIS regulations implement strict import controls to prevent
HPAI introductions resulting from people transporting contaminated wildlife meat, carcasses, and
trophies into the United States.
APHIS has been working with stakeholders and other federal agencies to provide options for importing
hunter-harvested wild bird meat/carcasses that address the HPAI transmission risk to our domestic
poultry. Effective September 12, APHIS will allow the import of hunter harvested wild bird
meat/carcasses as outlined below.
Unprocessed hunter-harvested wild game bird carcasses, originating from or transiting Canada, must
meet following conditions:
Viscera, head, neck, feet, skin, and one wing have been removed; and
Feathers have been removed, with the exception of one wing – as required by U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (FWS) for species identification; and
Carcasses must be rinsed in fresh, clean, potable water prior to packaging and must not have visible
evidence of contamination with dirt, blood, or feces; and
Carcasses must be imported in leak-proof plastic packaging and stored in a leak proof cooler or
container during transport and import; and
Carcasses must be chilled or frozen during transport and import.
APHIS further recommends that boots and any equipment used to process the carcasses should be clean
and visibly free from dirt, blood, tissue, and feces.
Cooked or cured meat and meat products (for example, sausage, jerky, etc.) will not be allowed import as
U.S. FWS requirements cannot be met to identify the species of wild bird.
Hunter-harvested wild game bird trophies entering the United States from Canada must be fully finished,
or accompanied by a VS import permit, or consigned directly to a USDA Approved Establishment. Hunters
may find an approved taxidermy establishment by visiting the Veterinary Services Process Streamlining
(VSPS) search page and searching for a taxidermist with the HPAI product code in your state.
For any questions regarding import of animal products and by-products, please contact Animal Product
Imports at 301-851-3300 or send an email to APIE@usda.gov.
For US Fish and Wildlife requirements for the hunter harvested wild game birds from Canada, please
contact them at www.fws.gov.
Status of Murre populations and harvest in Canada
Following an episode of mortality caused by avian influenza during 2022, the Canadian Wildlife Service
(CWS) has reviewed abundance, population trends, and mortality incidents for Common Murres and
Thick-billed Murres in eastern Canada.
As of September 1, 2023, CWS is not considering changing migratory bird hunting regulations to reduce
the harvest of Murres in Newfoundland and Labrador during the 2023 to 2024 hunting season. CWS can
however invoke an emergency closure of murre hunting on a local or province-wide scale at a future date
if conditions lead to excessive harvest.
most birds harvested by murre hunters are Thick-billed Murres. Mortality associated with highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been largely restricted to Common Murres, which represent a
smaller portion of birds harvested
based on the best available data at this time, the mortality of Common Murres along with observed
overwinter mortality (unrelated to HPAI) of Thick-billed Murres in 2022, while concerning, is not
sufficient to warrant a change in hunting regulations when total population size is considered
All hunters are reminded that it is an offense to harvest more than 20 murres per day or to be in
possession of more than 40 murres. It is illegal to sell, buy or barter murres. Members of the public can
support the sustainable management of murres by not engaging in the illegal sale or purchase of murres.
Wildlife Enforcement officers will be actively pursuing offenders, and upon conviction, the mandatory
minimum fine of $5000 per offence is consistently being applied in the courts of NL, in addition to the
potential forfeiture of guns, boats and vehicles.
Two species of Murres comprise the harvest in Newfoundland and Labrador: the Thick-billed Murre and
the Common Murre.
In Canada, the total number for these two species is approximately 8.7 million individuals.
The number of Common Murres is estimated at 3.2 million reproductive and non-reproductive individuals
in Canadian waters of the North Atlantic. It is estimated that there are 789,000 breeding pairs of
Common Murres at 25 colonies in Newfoundland and Labrador, in addition to 96,000 breeding pairs at
colonies in Quebec.
The total number of Thick-billed Murres attributed to Canadian colonies is estimated to be 5.5 million
reproductive and non-reproductive individuals. The Canadian breeding population of Thick-billed Murres
is approximately 1.5 million pairs mostly from colonies in the Eastern Canadian High Arctic and the
Hudson Bay / Strait area.
The estimated annual harvest of Murres in Canada ranges from 60,000 to 120,000. On average, 75% of
murres harvested in Newfoundland and Labrador are Thick-billed Murres.
Mortality among Thick-billed Murre mortality was observed during the late winter of 2022, which is a
normal phenomenon for this species. Emaciated birds were observed in a large geographic area, indicating
a lack of access to food. Birds sampled tested negative for avian influenza.
Mortalities were noted in the southern St. Lawrence River in late May. During the summer of 2022, the
Canadian Wildlife Service undertook a variety of surveys to better understand the extent and impact of
avian influenza on Common Murre colonies. Approximately 2,000 murre carcasses were counted in the
summer of 2022. HPAI testing confirmed a number of positive cases among these mortalities.
In early July, murres likely from the Cape St. Mary’s colony began washing up on beaches in southern
Newfoundland. Mortalities were then noted in eastern Newfoundland, implicating the breeding colonies
in the Witless Bay colony and other colonies on the northeast coast.
On August 22, CWS re-visited Witless Bay and noted that large numbers of murres were still present on
the island and that they were successfully raising chicks, which appeared healthy.
CWS continues to assess mortality in wild birds associated with HPAI.
In December 2022 near Twillingate, 13 Murres (3 Common Murres and 10 Thick-billed Murres) shot by
hunters were tested for avian influenza. All of these Murres tested negative for the virus.
Between January and March 2023 in St. Mary’s Bay, Trinity Bay, and Placentia Bay, 422 Murres (134
Common Murres and 278 Thick-billed Murres) shot by hunters were tested for avian influenza. All of the
Common Murres tested negative for the virus, while six of the Thick-billed Murres were positive for low
pathogenic avian influenza. None of the birds tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, which
caused the mass mortality of Common Murres in the summer of 2022. Colony surveillance of murres in
2023 did not reveal any mortality related to HPAI.
Harvest and Avian Influenza
Avian influenza has been documented in waterfowl and other gamebirds throughout Atlantic Canada,
including strains that are highly pathogenic to both wild and domestic birds. Hunters should consult Public
Health Agency of Canada’s “Recommendations for Hunters of Wild Birds and Other Susceptible Wildlife”
before handling and consuming wild birds. Hunters should not harvest or consume birds found dead or
that look sick.
Hunters should cook game meats thoroughly before consumption. There is no evidence to suggest that
fully cooked game meat, organs, or eggs are a source of avian influenza infection for people.
All hunters are reminded that it is an offense to harvest more than 20 murres per day or to be in
possession of more than 40 murres. It is illegal to sell, buy or barter murres. Members of the public can
support the sustainable management of murres by not engaging in the illegal sale or purchase of murres.
Wildlife Enforcement officers will be actively pursuing offenders, and upon conviction, the mandatory
minimum of $5000 per offence is consistently being applied in the courts of NL, in addition to the
potential forfeiture of guns, boats and vehicles.
Newfoundland and Labrador Murre Conservation

Fund
What is the Newfoundland and Labrador Murre Conservation Fund?
Each year a portion of the revenue from the sale of the Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamps in
Newfoundland and Labrador is put towards murre conservation and management. This financial support
helps to ensure a sustainable murre population by improving our understanding of how best to manage
murres. The intent is to maintain a healthy murre population so that hunting opportunities are available
for future generations.
How the fund came to be
Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador have harvested murres (turrs) for food for generations. During
the 1970s and the 1980s it became apparent that the murre harvest was unsustainable and regulation
commenced in the early 1990s under special authorities of the Migratory Bird Convention Act. Starting in
1999, murre hunters were required to purchase a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit. More effective
regulation of the hunt was also achieved through bag limits and seasonal restrictions to ensure the long
term sustainability of murre populations. A portion of the money from the hunting permit (from the
Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp) sold in Newfoundland and Labrador is directed to murre
conservation activities. These funds are managed by Wildlife Habitat Canada and Bird Studies Canada
(Newfoundland), in consultation with the Canadian Wildlife Service and the Wildlife Division of the
Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
What the fund supports
By providing funds to projects that support the conservation, management and sustainable harvest of
murre populations, the Newfoundland and Labrador Murre Conservation Fund encourages the
conservation of murres through research and education and aims to further this support. Over the years,
this fund has supported research on several aspects of murre biology and conservation, including
breeding ecology and productivity; assessment of diet and foraging ecology; the role of annual survival,
harvest, oiling and other mortality factors; as well as studies on migration, distribution, and overwintering
areas. Hunters can take pride in being part of the efforts to support research on murres in Newfoundland
and Labrador.
For more information on the Newfoundland and Labrador Murre Conservation Fund and what the
Stamp on your permit supports, visit Bird Studies Canada www.birdscanada.org and Wildlife Habitat
Canada www.whc.org
Murre Parental Tactics Researchers from Memorial University attached small

GPS monitors to Common Murres to determine foraging tactics and ocean
habitat use for breeding. Photo by Laura McFarlane Tranquilla
Photo by Laura McFarlane Tranquilla
Outreach Programs
Youth Outdoor Skills Workshops
The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, Wildlife Division, partners with local Rod and Gun
Clubs to offer outdoor skills workshops and events for youth aged 12 to 17. These events provide youth
with the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills in a safe environment with qualified
instructors and volunteers. Youth participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Events for 2024 will be announced at a later date.
Youth Dream Adventure Newfoundland and Labrador
The Youth Dream Adventure provides young people of our province a chance to win an inclusive trip to an
incredible destination here at home, building from the Atlantic Provinces Youth Hunting and Fishing
Exchange. This program is intended to engage local experts in outdoor pursuits (angling, hunting, etc.)
that youth may not otherwise have opportunity to encounter and provide them with an exceptional
opportunity. These experiences will help develop interest and involvement in outdoor activities and offer
skills development at the same time.
A youth winner (aged 12-17) is chosen by random draw from all those who have participated in the
provincial Firearms Safety/Hunter Education Course or other outdoor skills events sanctioned by the
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture each year.
Significant support has been received for this program each year including consistent support from the
Newfoundland and Labrador Outfitters Association and individual outfitters, the Newfoundland and
Labrador Trappers Association and Conservation Officers Association, Rod and Gun Clubs and local
businesses.
Thanks to our 2023 Sponsors.
Next Ridge Outfitters

Newfoundland and Labrador Outfitters Association
Newfoundland and Labrador Trappers Association
Upper Humber Rod and Gun Association
St. John’s Rod and Gun Club
Gander Rod and Gun Club
Northwest Arm Rod and Gun Club
Notre Dame Rod and Gun
Friends of Salmonier Nature Park
Long Range Outdoors
Blue Ridge Inc.
For more information, contact:
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture

Wildlife Division
P.O. Box 2007
Corner Brook, NL A2H 7S1
Ph: 637-2006 or email: nathanspence@gov.nl.ca
Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW)
BOW Program Offers Women Opportunity to Expand Outdoor Skills
The Becoming an Outdoors Woman Program is an outdoor education skills program sponsored by the
Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture and the Friends of Salmonier Nature Park. The BOW
program is delivered in several formats – the traditional 3-day weekend event, as well as Beyond BOW
workshops of various lengths. All classes are taught at the entry level in a safe, non-intimidating outdoor
setting. Courses such as archery, fishing, canoeing, shotgun, rifle, outdoor cooking, hiking, and many more,
are offered.
Becoming an Outdoors Family (BOF)
Becoming an Outdoors Family teaches skills for a lifetime of outdoor recreation. In this camping
experience, we’ll introduce you to several outdoor activities, providing all the instruction and equipment
you need to try it yourself. During the weekend the whole family will become one with nature with help
from our friends at Salmonier Nature Park and Newfoundland’s Provincial Parks.
For more information contact the Salmonier Nature Park at 229-7888 or visit our website at:
https://www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/
Environmental Management System Guide to

Domestic Woodcutting
Domestic Wood Cutting
Contact
Forestry and Wildlife Branch Offices
Corner Brook
Wildlife Division/Licencing
192 Wheeler’s Rd
P.O. Box 2007
Corner Brook, NL A2H 7S1
709.637.2025 (Tel)
709.637.2099 (Fax)
Email. wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca
Gander Regional Office

133 Airport Blvd.
P.O. Box 2222
Gander, NL A1V 2N9
709.256.1450 (Tel)
709.256.1459 (Fax)
Happy Valley-Goose Bay

15 Cherrywood Drive
P.O. Box 3014, Stn. B
Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL A0P 1E0
709.896.7930 (Tel)
709.896.0188 (Fax)
St. John’s Wildlife Division/Licencing

Provincial Agriculture Bldg., 204 Brookfield Rd.
P.O. Box 8700
St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6
709.729.2630 (Tel)
709.729.0751 (Fax)
Email wildlifelicense@gov.nl.ca
Salmonier Nature Park

Route 90, Holyrood
Mailing Address:
Provincial Agriculture Bldg., 204 Brookfield Rd.
P.O. Box 8700
709.229.7888 (Tel)
salmoniernaturepark@gov.nl.ca
Resource Enforcement Division Offices
Provincial Headquarters
115 Riverside Drive
Corner Brook, NL, A2H 2N2
709.637.2971 (Tel)
709.637.2975 (Fax)
Western Regional Office

1 Massey Drive
Massey Drive, NL A2H 7A9
709.637.8088 (Tel)
709.639.1377 (Fax)
Eastern Regional Office

P.O. Box 8700
21 Hallett Crescent
709.729.2192 (Tel)
709.729.2375 (Fax)
Labrador Regional Office

1 Kessessaskiou Street
Mail: P.O. Box 3014, Station “B”
Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL A0P 1E0
709.896.7973 (Tel)
709.896.7986 (Fax)
Report Poaching
Toll Free: 1.877.820.0999
Report Poaching – Feedback Forms (gov.nl.ca)
REOutreach@gov.nl.ca
Forestry and Wildlife District Offices (Area Code 709)
To report any animal related emergencies, please call 685-7273.
Baie Verte 709-673-3821

Bay D’Espoir 709-882-2200
Bishop’s Falls 709-258-5334
Cape Broyle 709-729-4180
Carbonear 709-729-4180
Cartwright 709-938-7362
Churchill Falls 709-925-3179
Clarenville 709-466-7439
Gambo 709-674-4625
Heart’s Content 709-729-4180
Lewisporte 709-535-2706
Massey Drive 709-637-2370

Millertown 709-673-3821
North West River 709-497-8479
Paddy’s Pond-St. John’s 709-729-4180
Pasadena 709-686-2071
Pollards Point 709-686-2071
Port Hope Simpson 709-938-7362
Port Saunders 709-861-3502
Roddickton 709-457-2300
Salmonier 709-729-4180
Southern Bay 709-462-3491
Springdale 709-673-3821
St. Anthony 709-454-8435
St. George’s 709-646-3720
Wabush 709-282-6881
Whitbourne 709-729-4180
Wings Point 709-676-2260
Winterland 709-279-3980
Additional Contact Information
Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation

Parks Division 709.637.2040 (Tel)
Email. info@parksnl.ca
Newfoundland and Labrador Outfitters Association

1.866.470.6562 (Toll Free)
Central Cashier’s Office

P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL
A1B 4J6
709.729.3042 (Tel)
RCMP Canadian Firearms Program
7 Pippy Place, PO Box 8218

St. John’s, NL
A1B 3N4
1.800.731.4000 (Toll Free)
Newfoundland and Labrador Trapper’s Association

709.592.2416 (Tel)
Canadian Wildlife Service (NL)

Mt. Pearl 709.772.5585 (Tel)
Corner Brook 709.637.4377 (Tel)
Parks Canada
Gros Morne National Park
709.458.2417 (Tel)
Terra Nova National Park

709.533.2801 (Tel)
Torngat Mountains National Park

709.922.1290 (Tel)
To report incidents in national parks and sites

1.877.852.3100 (Toll Free)

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8/8/24, 11:22 AM print - 2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Guide

2024-25 Hunting and Trapping Guide

LEFT HEADER RIGHT HEADER

As Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, I am pleased

I’m happy to note that we are marking an improvement in

Honourable Gerry Byrne

LEFT HEADER RIGHT HEADER

Licence Type Price (Cdn) Payment Methods/Restrictions

Moose Pay online.

Resident Senior $33.80

Non-Resident $502.00 Available through licenced outfitter only.

Woodland Caribou Pay online.

Resident Senior $33.80

Non-Resident $675.00 Available through licenced outfitter only.

Black Bear Pay online.

Resident Application $39.00

Resident Senior Application $25.35

Non-Resident $150.00 Available through licenced outfitter only.

Small Game/Coyote/Wolf All licences available at local vendors or contact

Resident Senior $6.50

Non-Resident (Canadian-Citizen) $50.00

Non-Resident (Non-Canadian $100.00

Youth Small Game Snaring Only Free Youth under 16

Ptargmigan (Shooting Licence) All licences available at local vendors or contact

Resident Senior $6.50

Non-Resident (Canadian-Citizen) $50.00

Non-Resident (Non-Canadian $100.00

Trapper Pay online.

General Licence $15.00

General Licence (Senior) $9.75

Beaver Trapline-Island $15.00

Beaver Trapline-Island (Senior) $9.75

Guide Pay online.

General Licence $15.00

Resident Senior $9.75

Migratory Game Bird Permit Available at Canada Post Outlets or online:

LEFT HEADER RIGHT HEADER

New for 2024-25

Advisory to Big Game Applicants

Big Game Applications Online Only

Black Bear and Trapper Licence Applications Online Only

Program for Hunters with a Disability

Migratory Game Bird Hunting

LEFT HEADER RIGHT HEADER

General Information for All Hunters

Resident Moose and Caribou and Not-for-Profit/Charitable Moose Applications

Resident Black Bear

Labrador close of business (4:30 p.m NST) March 11, 2024

Island close of business (4:30 p.m NST) April 12, 2024

New Applicants for the Big Game Licence Draw

Canadian Firearms Safety Course/Hunter Education (CFSC/HE) Course

Outdoor Identification Card (OIC)/Temporary Outdoor Identification

Problem Moose on Farms

Not-for-Profit Moose Licences

REMINDER – POSSESSION AND SALE OF GAME

Sharing the Harvest

How Do I Get A Licence?

Federal Firearms Regulations

A resident of Newfoundland and Labrador is:

Samiajij Miawpukek Reserve (Conne River)