2010 - 2011 Illinois whitetail deer hunting season statistics

Hunters in Illinois harvested a preliminary total of 98,700 deer during the seven-day firearm deer season, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced. In comparison, a total of 99,419 deer were taken during the 2009 firearm season.

The preliminary second-season harvest total was 30,663 in 2010, compared with the 33,293 deer taken by hunters during the second segment of the season in 2009. 2010’s preliminary first-season deer harvest was 68,037, compared with a first-season harvest of 66,126 in 2009. The preliminary harvest totals include deer taken in all counties in which firearm deer hunting is permitted, as well as at Chain O’Lakes State Park in Lake County.

“Harvest results for this year’s firearm deer seasons were remarkably similar to last year,” said IDNR Forest Wildlife Program Manager Paul Shelton. “Fifty-one counties saw increases in harvest, while 49 counties declined. Management efforts aimed at controlling deer herds while maintaining recreational opportunities are paying off.”

(source: Illinois Department of Natural Resources)

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