DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos has announced that applications are now available for DEC’s cooperative Day-Old Pheasant Chick Program, which allows people to participate in raising and releasing pheasants to enhance the state’s fall hunting opportunities. The program is provided through DEC’s partnership with hunters, 4-H youth, and interested landowners.
Applicants are required to provide daily care to the rapidly growing chicks, monitor the birds’ health, and ensure the chicks have adequate feed and water. The pheasants may be released beginning when they are eight weeks old and must be released no later than Dec. 1. Individuals interested in these programs should contact the nearest DEC regional office for applications and additional information.