North Dakota winter has been tough on wildlife

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The North Dakota Game and Fish Department says the weather in February and March will be critical to the health of wildlife in the state.

Wildlife Chief Randy Kreil says animals and birds could use a reprieve after struggling with tough conditions for three straight winters. He says the longer winter drags on this year, the greater the impact to wildlife and to hunting opportunities in the fall.

Kreil says winter mortality forced officials to reduce deer hunting licenses last year, and the antelope population was too low to even have a hunting season. He says there are reports of pheasant losses this winter but the extent isn't known yet. He says there also are reports of dead and dying deer, as there typically are during tough winters.

Tags: north dakota, game and fish, outdoors, news, updates, wildlife, bismarck