New Mexico Statewide Rule
New Mexico Wildlife Feeding and Baiting Restrictions
Key Facts
- Statute
- NMSA 17-2-10
- Regulator
- NM Game and Fish
- Bait Definition
- Broad organic attractants
- Enforcement
- Statewide
Summary
Under NMSA 17-2 and Game Commission rules, intentionally feeding or baiting big game animals to create nuisance conditions is unlawful statewide. Violations are enforced uniformly by the Department of Game and Fish regardless of municipal location.
It shall be unlawful for any person, by their action or lack of action, whether intentionally or through negligence, to cause a nuisance game animal or depredation problem by baiting, feeding, or otherwise enticing game animals to an area, and such persons, if convicted, may be punished under 17-2-10 NMSA 1978.
Full Breakdown
New Mexico Game Commission rules under authority of NMSA 17-2-10 prohibit causing nuisance game animal or depredation problems by baiting, feeding, or enticing game animals to an area. Bait is broadly defined to include salt, minerals, grain, feed, commercial attractants, or any organic material attractive to wildlife. Hunting over bait is also prohibited for protected game mammals and birds. Game and Fish officers enforce these rules statewide on public and private lands. While municipalities may pass complementary urban wildlife feeding bans, they cannot authorize conduct prohibited by state game law. Feeding stations attracting bears, deer, or other big game create criminal exposure even on private property.
Violations & Penalties
Baiting or feeding big game causing nuisance or depredation is a misdemeanor under NMSA 17-2-10, punishable by fines, license revocation, and potential civil restitution for wildlife damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed deer or elk on my own property?
Does this prohibition include songbird feeders?
Sources
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