Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – As hunters prepare for the second firearm deer season of 2025 and additional hunting seasons, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) cautions everyone to be mindful of rules and best practices surrounding the use of technology in the field. This includes the use of drones for recovering wildlife, artificial intelligence for reviewing hunting laws, and e-bikes to access hunting sites.

It is unlawful in Illinois to utilize unmanned aircraft and other technologies, such as drones, to recover wildlife while in the field.

In a recent press release issued by the IDNR, Jed Whitchurch, director of IDNR’s Office of Law Enforcement stated, “Using drones to aid in hunting is prohibited in Illinois, and it undermines the principles of fair chase and the ethical standards long upheld by hunters. Illinois Conservation Police will be on the lookout for drone activity throughout the fall and winter hunting periods. Hunters need to familiarize themselves with the Illinois Wildlife Code and follow legal requirements.”

On another note, as artificial intelligence (A.I.) is gaining popularity, you may want to use this tool to try and discover rules and regulations on hunting laws here in the state. However, A.I. sometimes provides flawed resources in giving these answers and may not always be correct. You should look at the IDNR website to find out the rules and regulations instead of using an A.I. tool to make sure you always follow safe practices and keep yourself law abiding.

IDNR Wildlife Chief, Mike Wefer, stated in the same press release “AI tools often return inaccurate and misleading results when asked questions about Illinois hunting regulations. Regulations can change over time and may vary depending on season, site or context. The IDNR strongly encourages people with questions about hunting regulations to consult primary sources like the Illinois Wildlife Code, conservation administrative rules and the Hunting and Trapping Digest.”

Electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, have also become more popular as of late. With this, some hunters have found them to be convenient and affordable vehicles for reaching remote hunting sites. However, these bikes are prohibited on IDNR-owned and operated lands for any reason, including hunting and trapping access, except on public access roads or designated bike trails.

Hunting is a fun activity for the whole family, but it is crucial that you know your laws and the regulations of this upcoming 2025 firearm deer hunting season, to ensure that you don’t get into any trouble on one hand, but also to remain safe during your hunting activity.