Six Animals You Can Hunt Year-Round in Colorado

Colorado loves hunting season. So do many individuals in neighboring states who are happy to pay top dollar for an out-of-state hunting license in the Centennial State.

Did you know there are a handful of animals you are allowed to hunt year-round in Colorado? Find out which animals it's ok to hunt during any season and some important reminders you'll want to know before you go out after them.

Get our free mobile app

Colorado Wildlife Management

It's important to remember that licenses and permits are still mandatory for all hunting in Colorado, even for the animals on the list of year-round species. Note that some areas in the state may have closures or regulations that apply. Colorado expects all hunters to abide by ethical hunting standards, even for non-game animals.

How To Purchase A Hunting License In Colorado

It's easy to purchase a hunting license in the state of Colorado. You can buy them in person from hundreds of retailers or a CPW location. A license can be purchased over the phone by dialing 1-800-244-5613, or it can be purchased online. Several are also available via the MyColorado app, the state's official hunting app.

What Animals Can You Hunt Year-Round In Colorado?

Hunting season for the following animals is designated as "year-round" in Colorado. Animals designated as invasive species may not require a license.

European Starling

The European Starling is designated as an invasive species in Colorado and can be hunted year-round in the Centennial State. A license is not required to hunt for this bird.

House Sparrow

The House Sparrow can be hunted year-round throughout the state of Colorado. This bird is not an invasive species, so you will need to pay for a license to hunt them.

Eurasian Collard Dove

The Eurasian Collard Dove is another invasive species you can hunt year-round without paying for a license in Colorado. See the Small Game and Waterfowl Brochure for additional instructions from CPW.

Wyoming Ground Squirrel

The Wyoming Ground Squirrel, also known as Richardson's Ground Squirrel, can be hunted year-round in Colorado. A hunting license is required for this small game animal.

Prairie Dog

Blacktail, Whitetail, and Gunnison's Prarie Dogs can all be hunted year-round in Colorado on private land. A hunting license is required. Prarie Dog season on public lands in Colorado is from June to February.

Coyote

Coyote hunting is allowed year-round and state-wide in Colorado, but you are required to hold a furbearer license, small game license, or unfilled big game license for the same season and unit.