When should big game taken in the field be tagged?

Big game taken in the field should be tagged immediately upon capture to ensure compliance with wildlife regulations. Tagging the animal right after it has been harvested helps to properly document the kill and allows for accurate tracking of game populations. It prevents any potential for confusion or misidentification of the animal, which is crucial for conservation efforts and law enforcement.

This practice also sets a clear guideline for hunters, establishing that the responsibility of marking the animal falls upon them as soon as the animal is taken. Delaying this step until later, such as at the end of the day or after reaching a vehicle, could lead to legal issues and complications in ensuring that the animal is within hunting regulations, as well as enforcement by wildlife officers. By tagging immediately, hunters can focus on the retrieval and processing of the animal with peace of mind regarding legal compliance.