Thermal imaging for taking of Coyote or Hogs on Depredation Permit

[duckman1]

Just spent the last 2 hours reviewing the CA regs. as they relate to hunting coyote (anytime) and hogs on a depredation permit.

If I read it correctly a thermal scope can be used for hogs by permit but not coyotes?

Reason for the ask, I just returned from TX having hunted hogs from a helicopter, Javalina from a stand and night coyote hunting with thermals. I'm booked for next ear if that is any indication.

Anyone have any experience?

Thanks

[NickTheGreek]

I looked into this back in 2014 and at that time it was legal on a dep permit, but laws change. But I don't remember if the warden had to mention night vision on your permit or if it was allowed either way. If you're lucky enough to get a dep permit for hogs just play it safe and ask the warden.

[Quiet]

Fish & Game Code 2005Fish & Game Code 4180
(a) Except as provided for in Section 4005, fur-bearing mammals that are injuring property may be taken at any time and in any manner in accordance with this code or regulations made pursuant to this code. Raw furs, as defined in Section 4005, that are taken under this section, shall not be sold.
(b) Traps used pursuant to this section shall be inspected and all animals in the traps shall be removed at least once daily. The inspection and removal shall be done by the person who sets the trap or the owner of the land where the trap is set or an agent of either.

Fish & Game Code 4181
(a) Except as provided in Section 4181.1, any owner or tenant of land or property that is being damaged or destroyed or is in danger of being damaged or destroyed by elk, bear, beaver, wild pig, wild turkeys, or gray squirrels, may apply to the department for a permit to kill the animals. Subject to the limitations in subdivisions (b) and (d), the department, upon satisfactory evidence of the damage or destruction, actual or immediately threatened, shall issue a revocable permit for the taking and disposition of the animals under regulations adopted by the commission. The permit shall include a statement of the penalties that may be imposed for a violation of the permit conditions. Animals so taken shall not be sold or shipped from the premises on which they are taken except under instructions from the department. No iron-jawed or steel-jawed or any type of metal-jawed trap shall be used to take any bear pursuant to this section. No poison of any type may be used to take any gray squirrel or wild turkey pursuant to this section. The department shall designate the type of trap to be used to ensure the most humane method is used to trap gray squirrels. The department may require trapped squirrels to be released in parks or other nonagricultural areas. It is unlawful for any person to violate the terms of any permit issued under this section.
(c) With respect to wild pigs, the department shall provide an applicant for a depredation permit to take wild pigs or a person who reports taking wild pigs pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 4181.1 with written information that sets forth available options for wild pig control, including, but not limited to, depredation permits, allowing periodic access to licensed hunters, and holding special hunts authorized pursuant to Section 4188. The department may maintain and make available to these persons lists of licensed hunters interested in wild pig hunting and lists of nonprofit organizations that are available to take possession of depredating wild pig carcasses.

Fish & Game Code 4181.1Fish & Game Code 4181.2

[Quiet]

Under CA laws/regulations...

... "night vision equipment" is legal to use in conjunction with a depredation permit. [FGC 2005(d)(3)]

... "night vision equipment" is not legal to use in conjunction with hunting coyotes (non-game mammal). [FGC 2005(c)]

[duckman1]

It looks like you are all referencing the same codes I reviewed. Thank you! It's a darn shame we can't use them here, it was wicked fun.

[taperxz]

Thermal vision is not considered "night vision" It operates day and night and is not illegal to use.

[Mesa Defense]

I looked into this back in 2014 and at that time it was legal on a dep permit, but laws change. But I don't remember if the warden had to mention night vision on your permit or if it was allowed either way. If you're lucky enough to get a dep permit for hogs just play it safe and ask the warden.

This. Just ask the Warden. Remember, they have a lot of leeway, like requiring a particular caliber. Also, permits to take, require non lead....

[NickTheGreek]

This. Just ask the Warden. Remember, they have a lot of leeway, like requiring a particular caliber. Also, permits to take, require non lead....

Ya, if I remember correctly, like in the case of in city limits, they can also specify trapping only or certain methods of take that you must abide by.

[duckman1]

Ya, if I remember correctly, like in the case of in city limits, they can also specify trapping only or certain methods of take that you must abide by.

That is correct.