Daily Archives: May 26, 2016

Application deadline for Antelope permit June 10

Among Kansas’ big game species, antelope, also commonly referred to as pronghorn because of their hook-shaped horns, are some of the most elusive mammals to hunt in the state. With vision that can span distances as far as three miles out, and top speeds that easily rival most interstate drivers, it’s a wonder how any hunter manages to fill a tag in the species’ preferred habitat: wide open prairie. For Kansas residents willing to take on the challenge, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) is accepting firearm and muzzleloader permit applications for the 2016 antelope season through June 10. Huntable populations of antelope exist only in the western portion of the state, and a limited number of muzzleloader and firearm permits are available by a lottery draw.

Applications can be made online by visiting www.ksoutdoors.com and then clicking “Hunting,” “Fees, Licenses and Permits,” then “Antelope & Elk,” or by calling the KDWPT Pratt Operations Office at (620) 672-5911. Hunters may apply for either a general resident permit, a landowner/tenant permit, a youth permit, or purchase a preference point.

Pricing for 2016 (including application and online convenience fees) are as follows:

General Resident Application: $62.50

Landowner/Tenant Application: $37.50

Resident Youth Application (age 15 and under): $22.50

Nonresident Tenant Application: $97.50

Preference Point only: $11.50

Applicants who are unsuccessful in drawing a permit for the 2016 season will be given a preference point. Only one preference point may be obtained per year.

The 2016 Muzzleloader Season is Oct. 3-10, and the Firearm Season is Oct. 7-10. Archery permits are available online and wherever hunting licenses are sold from Aug. 3-Oct. 31, 2016. The 2016 Archery Season is Sept. 24-Oct. 2 and Oct. 15-31.

Tick Busters

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to tick prevention – the only guarantee is that ticks will be around – but a proactive approach can minimize the potential for lifelong health issues, and reduce these pests to a simple, minor annoyance.

Tick numbers usually peak in early June, but depending on spring temperatures, they can be common from April through July. If you spend time in the woods and in grassy areas, you’re going to attract ticks. And we know that in addition to being bloodsucking pests, they can spread serious blood-borne diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease. So how do you protect yourself?

Start by wearing light-colored clothing with long sleeves and pants. Keep the pantlegs tucked into your socks. Do periodic checks and be sure to examine yourself after your outing.

Use a repellent. Most people who spend time outdoors are familiar with the ingredient DEET, contained in many commercial insect repellents. It can be sprayed directly on your skin, and repellents that contain 20 percent to 30 percent DEET will repel ticks for several hours. Permethrin is another option. Unlike DEET, which only repels ticks, permethrin causes muscle spasms, paralysis, and death for ticks if they touch it or consume it. Permethrin-based products currently on the market can also last up to six washes, making a bottle go a long way. And the best part? It’s odorless; however, because of its potent abilities, permethrin can only be applied to clothing and fabric.

Permethrin-based sprays can be purchased at most major retailers and is roughly the same price as popular repellents containing DEET. Look for a spray that contains at least 0.5 percent of permethrin. Pre-treated clothing containing permethrin is also available.

When treating clothing with permethrin on your own, be sure to read the instructions carefully. Apply the spray in a well-ventilated area, or outside. Then, let clothes air-dry by hanging them up on a line, or by leaving them out on a porch or outdoor table. Once dry, the treated clothing can be worn immediately.

The next time you embark on an outdoor adventure, make sure you’ve got the right spray, and prevent these tiny critters from creating big problems.