What’s the average size of an antelope in Colorado?

Habitat and Distribution

Antelopes in Colorado can be found in various habitats, including the eastern plains, where they inhabit areas with open grasslands and shrubs. The public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) provide ideal hunting grounds for antelopes. These lands are characterized by rolling hills, creek bottoms, and draws, which offer ample cover and food sources for the antelopes.

The Draw System

Colorado’s draw system is used to manage and regulate antelope hunting on public lands. Hunters are required to apply for a limited number of permits, which are awarded through a random drawing process. The draw system helps to ensure that the antelope population remains healthy and sustainable, and that hunters have an opportunity to harvest an antelope on public lands. For example, in the 2022 draw, there were approximately 15,000 antelope licenses available for public lands, with a success rate of around 10-15%.

Hunting Techniques

To successfully hunt antelopes on the eastern plains, hunters should employ techniques that take into account the antelope’s behavior and habitat. One effective strategy is to use a spot-and-stalk approach, where hunters use binoculars to locate antelopes at a distance and then stalk them on foot. This approach requires a good understanding of antelope behavior, including their daily routines and movement patterns. For example, antelopes tend to congregate around water sources and food plots, such as alfalfa fields. Hunters can also use calls and decoys to attract antelopes, particularly during the rutting season.