The Peru Gazette

“Pheasant hunting is a longstanding tradition in New York State,” Commissioner Seggos said. “DEC’s Day-Old Chick Program allows people to participate in raising and releasing pheasants to enhance our state’s fall hunting opportunities. In 2018, DEC distributed more than 30,000 day-old pheasant chicks to qualified applicants. Interested and eligible New Yorkers are encouraged to apply and help make the 100th anniversary another successful year for this program.”

The program is a partnership among DEC, hunters, 4-H youth groups, and landowners interested in rearing and releasing pheasants. In its early days, pheasant eggs and chicks were distributed solely to farmers and rural youth. Today, day-old chicks are available at no cost to any New Yorker that can provide a brooding facility, a covered outdoor rearing pen, and an adequate release site. Release sites must be open to public pheasant hunting opportunities and chicks cannot be released on private shooting preserves.

Approved applicants will receive the day-old chicks in April, May, or June, depending on egg-laying and hatching dates. Participants must provide daily care for the rapidly growing chicks, ensure the chicks have adequate feed and water, and monitor their health. The pheasants may be released beginning when they are eight weeks old and must be released no later than Dec. 1.

Individuals interested in these programs should contact the nearest DEC regional office (please refer to offices listed below) for applications and additional information. A “Pheasant Rearing Guide” and applications are also available on DEC’s website.

R5 – Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties:
1115 Route 86, PO Box 296
Ray Brook, NY 12977
(518) 897-1291