Warren G. Feller opposes night vision hunting season extension in Kansas

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Commission meeting on March 27, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding the proposed extension of the night vision hunting permit season. The discussion was led by Warren G. Feller, a wildlife and parks commissioner, who presented a detailed statement reflecting the views of many local hunters and landowners.

Feller, a lifelong Kansan and experienced hunter, emphasized that the majority of public feedback he received opposed the extension. He noted that coyote hunting is already permitted year-round in Kansas, with no limits on the number of coyotes that can be taken. He argued that the current three-month night vision permit season is sufficient and that extending it is unnecessary given the existing hunting opportunities.

One of Feller's key points was the belief that extending the night vision season would have minimal impact on controlling coyote populations and protecting game birds. He suggested that habitat quality plays a more critical role in predator management than hunting methods. Furthermore, he expressed concerns about the potential for increased poaching and the strain on law enforcement resources, as legal night vision hunting could complicate the identification of poachers.

Feller also raised ethical considerations, arguing that the concept of "fair chase" is vital to hunting culture. He warned that reliance on advanced technology, such as night vision, could undermine traditional hunting practices and diminish the challenge that many hunters value. He called for a comprehensive discussion involving various stakeholders to address the implications of technological advancements in hunting.

The meeting underscored the ongoing debate within the Kansas hunting community about balancing modern hunting methods with the preservation of hunting traditions. As the KDWP considers the future of hunting regulations, the voices of local hunters and landowners will likely play a crucial role in shaping policies that reflect both conservation goals and cultural values. The commission's next steps will involve further discussions and potential revisions to the current regulations, ensuring that all perspectives are considered in the decision-making process.