North Michigan News

State Senator Michele Hoitenga and Representative Parker Fairbairn have introduced bills to reinstate Michigan's year-round coyote hunting season. This move follows the Natural Resource Commission's decision in March 2024 to restrict hunting from April 15 to July 15.

Senator Hoitenga, representing Manton, criticized the NRC's decision, stating, "The NRC’s decision to shorten the coyote hunting season lacks a foundation in scientific evidence and appears to be driven more by subjective and emotional considerations." She emphasized the need for active coyote management due to their rapid reproduction rates and potential threats they pose to livestock and pets.

The proposed legislation includes Senate Bill 366 and House Bill 4554, which aim to allow coyote hunting throughout the year. Representative Fairbairn of Harbor Springs noted that coyotes are prevalent across all of Michigan's 83 counties. He described them as a nuisance species due to their predation on pets and livestock. "Restoring the year-round open season that existed prior to NRC Order 1 of 2024 is a commonsense approach to coyote population management that we can all agree on," said Fairbairn.

Coyotes' reproductive capabilities are significant, with estimates suggesting a single female can birth over 100 pups in her lifetime, as litters typically consist of four to twelve offspring.