Gray Fox Hunting and Trapping Season Closed Statewide in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has closed the hunting and trapping seasons for gray foxes effective immediately due to a sharp population decline. Recent surveys and research show a significant drop in gray fox numbers and range over the past decade, prompting the decision to protect the species from further losses. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a new law on June 30th allowing the agency to make such decisions by administrative rule, and the closure was formally filed on July 9th. IDNR will continue monitoring the population and evaluating recovery options.