Q: If I see a coyote while I'm deer hunting, can I shoot it?
A: Yes. Coyotes fall into the category of "unprotected mammals." Other animals in this group include porcupines, gophers, weasels and striped skunks, animals for which there is no closed season or other protections. Unprotected birds include house sparrows, starlings, common pigeons, chukar partridge and monk parakeets.
They may be taken in any manner, except with the aid of artificial light or by using a motor vehicle to drive, chase, run over or kill the animal. They may be taken in any number at any time.
For more information, see page 25 of the 2017 Minnesota Hunting Regulation synopsis.
Matthew S. Miller is a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conservation officer with the Lake Superior Marine Unit. Send your questions to outdoors@duluthnews.com .
