Page 44 - 2024MarApr

DARRIN HILL/ODWC

Squirrels build nests in treetops using sticks rels. And, Kaw WMA is a perfect location for
and leaves and they are usually construct- your next squirrel hunting adventure.
ed toward the top of the tree in a fork of the
branch. Nests are much more noticeable than SOUTHWEST REGION: PREDATOR
busted shells on the ground. These pieces HUNTING AT PACKSADDLE WMA
fall or are dropped while a squirrel is feeding. Southwestern Oklahoma is known for its beau-
Sometimes they will feed on a log lying on the tiful landscapes. One of the most visited national
ground or on a limb up in a tree. wildlife refuges in the country, Wichita Mountains
In summary, the best way to start squirrel Wildlife Refuge, draws more than 1 million people
hunting is to spend time in the woods looking every year, a testament to the amazing recreation
for mast trees and looking/listening for squir- opportunities that this area of Oklahoma provides
to residents and nonresidents alike.
CAMPING ON WMAs Ellis WMA, Packsaddle WMA, and Black
Kettle WMA are three areas in this region that
• Camping is limited to 16 days, and for no more than 21 days in
provide a variety of opportunities to hunters.
any 30-day period, on the same WMA, except in areas open
These areas lie in Ellis and Roger Mills coun-
only to hunter camping for special seasons. Camping on these
ties. These WMAs have a mixed grass prai-
areas is limited to two days longer than the period the camper
rie habitat: a mixture of rolling sand hills and
(hunter) is authorized to hunt.
wooded bottoms with the South Canadian
• Leaving a campsite unattended for a period longer than 48
River as its southern boundary. Vegetation
hours is prohibited. Unattended camp items will be removed.
includes big bluestem, Indiangrass, little blue-
• Quiet hours are enforced from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.
stem, side-oats grama, and buffalo grass,
• All dogs or other pets must be kept on a leash or otherwise
along with brush species such as shinnery oak,
confined while in camping areas.
sagebrush, and sand plum.

42 OUTDOOR OKLAHOMA