Nebraska wildlife report reveals declining pronghorn populations and reduced hunting permits

The Virtual Big Game Meeting held by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) on January 1, 2025, focused on the current status of the state's big game populations, particularly pronghorn and deer. The meeting highlighted a concerning trend in firearm success rates, which have been declining over the past three to four years.

A significant factor contributing to this decline was the Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) event in 2021, which resulted in a substantial loss of the pronghorn population. In response to these challenges, the NGPC has adjusted hunting permits, initially increasing them over the past five years but subsequently reducing them to align with the declining population numbers.

The meeting reported that archery success rates have also fallen, with last year's success at 11%, a slight improvement to 14% this year, but still below the historical average of 18 to 20%. The overall population indices, including yearling buck harvest and fawn production, have shown a downward trend, prompting the commission to reconsider management strategies.

The NGPC emphasized the importance of monitoring these populations and adjusting hunting regulations accordingly to restore balance. Attendees were encouraged to access the big game recommendation book available on the NGPC website for further insights into management decisions and historical data.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the need for ongoing assessment and adaptive management in response to changing wildlife populations in Nebraska, ensuring sustainable hunting practices for the future.