The Hunter's Ethical Code

As Aldo Leopold, the “father of wildlife management,” once said, “Ethical behavior is doing the right thing when no one else is watching—even when doing the wrong thing is legal.”

The ethical code hunters use today has been developed by sportsmen and sportswomen over time. Most hunting organizations agree that responsible hunters do the following.

Respect Natural Resources

• Leave the land better than you found it.
• Adhere to fair chase rules.
• Know your capabilities and limitations as a marksman, and stay within your effective range.
• Strive for a quick, clean kill.
• Ensure that meat and usable parts are not wasted.
• Treat both game and non-game animals ethically.
• Abide by game laws and regulations.
• Cooperate with conservation officers.
• Report game violations.

Beyond Fair Chase

Learn about the opportunity and responsibility that comes with being a hunter in this 22 minute video. This video explores the natural processes that bind game animals and hunters and explores the history of hunting. You'll see how hunting is a privilege and how the hunting community plays an active part in nature. And, you'll learn the three basic ethical principles that hunters must follow. Launch the video!

To view this video a computer with Macromedia Flash and speakers or headphones is required. Most students will already have Flash installed. If not, follow this link to install the Flash Player.

Respect Other Hunters

• Follow safe firearm handling practices, and insist your companions do the same.
• Refrain from interfering with another’s hunt.
• Avoid consuming alcohol, which can impair you to the point of endangering others.
• Share your knowledge and skills with others.