Seasonal Closures of Wyoming Wildlife Habitat Areas Aim to Protect Wintering Wildlife

The majority of wildlife habitat management areas (WHMAs) in Wyoming are closed or subject to restrictions for the winter season to protect the state’s wildlife, Wyoming Game and Fish Department reports.

These seasonal closures, which are implemented annually by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD), are vital for conserving the energy of wildlife during the colder months and minimizing human impact on their critical habitats.

Many WHMAs across the state have already closed, with restrictions varying by location. These closures aim to shield species like deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife from stress caused by human presence during the winter months when these animals rely on fat reserves to survive the cold. The closures also help protect forage that supports these animals through the winter.

“Seasonal closures are essential for minimizing stress-causing disturbances to wintering deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife… Closures also reduce the human and recreational impacts to the forage, which supports the wildlife on their winter ranges,” said Ray Bredehoft, WGFD habitat and access branch chief.

Key wildlife habitat areas with closures include:

• Forbes/Sheep Mountain (Albany) – Closed from January 1 to April 30.
• Greys River (Alpine) – Closed from December 1 to May 1.
• Wick/Beumee (Arlington) – Closed from December 1 to May 15, with specific restrictions.
• Spence & Moriarity (Dubois) – Closed from December 16 to May 15, with some areas open year-round.

In addition to complete closures, certain areas allow access with restrictions. For instance, areas like Whiskey Basin (Dubois) are open to foot and horse traffic, but vehicles are not permitted during the closure period.

Some wildlife areas remain open year-round with restrictions on vehicle access. Notably, Ocean Lake (Riverton), Sand Mesa (Shoshoni), and Chain Lakes (Wamsutter) provide public access, but off-road vehicles are prohibited, ensuring minimal disruption to the wildlife.