Higher than normal winter wildlife losses in Colorado may reduce hunting opportunities this year.

According to the Craig Daily Press, Deer herds in Colorado and Wyoming were especially hard hit by the cold, snowy winter which could mean a reduction in the number of hunting permits that are offered.

Parts of Colorado saw snowfall as late as mid-June, and the prolonged snow cover made it more difficult for wildlife to find food.

The wildlife losses have extended beyond the Rockies to include California which lost dozens of endangered bighorn sheep.

It seems impossible to find a happy medium when it comes to various weather factors. Not enough winter snow and we end up with drought conditions, while too much snow causes extreme wildlife losses.

While some hunting may be affected by these wildlife losses, it's my belief that most hunters won't be dramatically affected, although bagging that trophy buck may be a bit more challenging this year.

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