HELENA - For the first time ever, Montana has a wolf hunting season.
The season's commencement is contingent on wolves being taken off the federal endangered species list, which is expected to be announced by the federal government Thursday.
That decision to delist also is expected to be litigated, which could tie up the matter in court, meaning wolves might not actually be hunted for years.
Still, Wednesday's decision by the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Commission to set dates for the 2008 hunting season - Oct. 26 through Dec. 31 - is momentous.
The backcountry hunting season opener of Sept. 15 also will coincide with wolf hunting in those areas.
The 2009 season is similar, although opening day is Oct. 29. The seasons will be revisited in two years as part of the commission's biannual setting of seasons.
Hunters will not be allowed to use dogs to hunt wolves, or to bait the animals or use artificial scents or lures.
Aerial spotting and hunting won't be allowed, along with spotlights and other artificial lights, two-way communication devices, electronic calls or night-vision equipment.
Although trapping wolves was included in the two-season authorization, no permits will be issued. So in effect, trapping wolves won't be allowed for at least the next two years.
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http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2008/02/21/news/local/news03.txt
