Pheasant season for LI junior hunters

New York State officials have announced the first pheasant hunting season for Long Island youths.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation says junior hunters 12 to 15 will have a two-day hunting season on Oct. 29-30.

DEC official Peter Scully says the special hunting season is chance for adult hunters and mentors to pass down their tradition, knowledge and experiences to the next generation.

He says less crowded conditions with experienced adult hunters and dog handlers also are an advantage for the youths.

The youths must complete a hunter education course and be accompanied by an adult. The adult needs a hunting license.

The hunts will be at the Rocky Point Natural Resource Management Area, the Peconic Headwaters Natural Resource Management Area (formerly Navy Cooperative Area/Otis Pike Preserve) and the Eastport Conservation Area, according to the DEC website.

The limit is two birds for the weekend.

For more information, call the state Bureau of Wildlife Stony Brook office at 631-444-0310. A list of release sites statewide is at dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/pheasantsites11.pdf.