The Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife is reminding Coloradans that collecting shed antlers is illegal from Jan. 1 through April 30 on public lands west of Interstate 25. 

Big game and grouse species live in basic survival mode during the winter months while food is scarce, and if an animal is forced to burn extra calories it may not survive the winter, CPW officials said. 

“The purpose of the closures is to reduce disturbance of wintering wildlife during the time of year they are most vulnerable,” said Scott Wait, senior terrestrial biologist for the Southwest Region of CPW. 

In recent years, shed antler collecting has become very popular throughout Colorado, both for personal and commercial reasons. This has greatly increased the number of people illegally searching for antlers during the winter, CPW officials said. 

Anyone found violating these rules will be issued a $100 fine in addition to five license-suspension points. If a person has 20 points, their hunting license could be suspended. 

“Let’s make sure we are all doing what’s best for wildlife and help give them a break during their toughest time of year,” said Brandon Diamond, an area wildlife manager in the Gunnison area. 

Anyone who sees someone violating these regulations is encouraged to call the nearest CPW office or Operation Game Thief at 877-265-6648