North American Game Species Database

Your Complete Species Reference Guide

Hunt & Live maintains the most comprehensive, free database of North American game species available online. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started, understanding the species you’re pursuing is fundamental to ethical, successful, and safe hunting.

This database includes detailed information on habitat preferences, typical behavior patterns, hunting seasons across different regions, and recommended hunting methods for each species. All data is sourced from state wildlife agencies, peer-reviewed wildlife management research, and verified by our expert contributors.

How to Use This Database

Each species entry in our database includes:

• Identification guides with high-quality photography and key distinguishing features
• Habitat and range maps showing where each species is found across North America
• Seasonal behavior patterns to help you understand when and where to find them
• Legal hunting information including season dates and bag limits (note: these vary by state and year—always verify current regulations)
• Recommended hunting methods from experienced hunters and wildlife managers
• Ethical hunting considerations for sustainable harvest

Our database is organized by species type (big game, upland game, waterfowl, predators, and small game) to help you quickly find what you need.

Why We Built This

Hunting forums are filled with conflicting information, outdated advice, and opinions presented as fact. When you’re learning to hunt—or moving to a new region—you need accurate, trustworthy information quickly.

We built this database to be:

• Accurate: All species data is verified against state wildlife management agencies and peer-reviewed research
• Current: Updated annually and whenever new regulations take effect
• Accessible: Free to use, searchable, and designed for both beginners and advanced hunters
• Comprehensive: The most complete species reference guide available online
• Ethical: Emphasizing sustainable practices and responsible hunting

Open Data Philosophy

This entire database is freely available because we believe hunting knowledge should be democratized. We don’t gate this information behind paywalls or require registration. Download, share, and use this data in your own projects—it’s part of the hunt.

Contributing to the Database

Hunt & Live is built by hunters, for hunters. If you’ve spotted an error, have species information to contribute, or want to help expand our coverage, we’d love to hear from you. Submit corrections or new content through our contribution portal.

Always Verify Current Regulations

While our database provides general information about seasons, bag limits, and hunting methods, regulations change annually. Before you hunt, verify current season dates, bag limits, and legal methods with your state wildlife agency. This is not just legal—it’s your responsibility as an ethical hunter.

Use the State Hunting Regulations Directory to find official information for your area.

Start exploring the species database below. Each entry includes detailed information to help you become a more knowledgeable, ethical, and successful hunter.