The Hunter's Ethical Code

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

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

Respect Natural Resources

• Leave the land better than you found it.
• Support wildlife conservation programs.
• Adhere to fair chase rules.
• Know your capabilities and limitations as a marksman, stay within your effective range, and strive to improve your skills and the likelihood of a 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.

Respect Other Hunters

• Follow and insist on safe firearm handling practices.
• 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.