Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds shed hunters that the collection and possession of antlers or horns on all public lands west of Interstate 25 is prohibited between Jan. 1 and April 30 each year.
This closure, in place since 2018, is intended to protect wintering animals from unnecessary human disturbance during the late winter months when ungulate body condition is at its worst.
This closure is for public lands only. The collection of antlers and horns on private lands is still permitted. However, permission to access private lands is always required regardless of the time of year.
Because of a recently approved increase in wildlife-related fines, the possession of a single antler or horn will cost offenders $137 and five license suspension points. Accumulation of 20 or more points may lead to the suspension of hunting and fishing privileges in Colorado and 48 other states, including all of Colorado’s neighboring states.
CPW encourages people with information about illegal shed collection to call their local CPW office or the Operation Game Thief hotline at (877) 265-6648. People who provide tips to OGT may earn monetary rewards and can remain anonymous.
