(KRTV.com – Yellowstone NP)
According the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, mild conditions have created a low opportunity for hunters to take bison so far this winter.
Last year, over 1000 bison could be found in the Gardiner Basin, as deep snow at higher elevations in the park forced the animals to move to find sufficient food.
The milder winter this year means the bison has not needed to migrate for food, keeping them in the confines of the park.
85 bison are allowed to be harvested by hunters in Montana. So far, only 15 bison have been taken. The season came to an end on February 15.
Last year, tribal hunters hunted more than 1000 bison. Tribal hunt may be smaller this year than in the past. However, due to tribal hunt rules, tribal harvest is weather dependent, so next year’s availability is yet to be determined.
