Request to drop crow-hunting season rejected

The Nevada Wildlife Commission unanimously voted Saturday against Sandra Shverha's bid, saying state law prohibits them from closing a season unless they have scientific proof it's warranted.

"I don't think we have much of a choice based on the law," said commission Chairman Don Cavin.

Shverha, who did not attend the meeting, said crows should not be hunted since they're not edible and many cultures revere them.

Commissioners voted 5-3 in March to set two crow-hunting seasons, from October to December this year and March to April next year.

Ranchers and farmers pushed for the move, claiming that Nevada has too many crows that destroy crops and harass livestock.

Opponents pointed out that state and federal laws already allow the shooting of crows if the birds are harming crops, livestock, trees or other wildlife.

Cavin said the commission has received numerous letters from the public and wildlife groups on both sides of the issue since its March vote.

Commissioner David Jickling said he empathizes with bird lovers but the board's hands were tied under state law.

"But I feel when we are asked to add animals to the list of those that can be hunted, there should be the same burden of proof for adding them as we have for removing them," he said.

"If we're going to add things, we ought to know there is a certifiable surplus before we add them."

Crow hunters will be allowed to bag up to 10 birds a day and will be exempt from the state's wanton waste law, which requires hunters to eat what they shoot or use the feathers or fur.

Law enforcement officials warn that shooting birds in populated areas is illegal.

At least six other Western states, including California, also have crow-hunting seasons.

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