So You Found a Bambi in the Bumper? How to Snag a Salvage Tag for Deer in Illinois
Let's face it, hitting a deer with your car is no laughing matter. But hey, sometimes life throws you a curveball, and that curveball might be a 200-pound herbivore. Now you're staring down a furry fender ornament and wondering, "Can I, uh, legally keep this deer?" Buckle up, because this guide will turn you from a deer-in-the-headlights driver into a...responsible-deer-salvager? Sounds way cooler, right?
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| How To Get A Salvage Tag For Deer In Illinois |
Not-So-Fast Freddy: Roadkill vs. Random Roadside Roe
There are two main scenarios where you might need a salvage tag:
- The Great Bambi Bounce: You (unintentionally) played bumper cars with a deer, and it didn't go well for the deer.
- The Mysterious Meadow Mystery: You stumbled upon a deceased deer that wasn't exactly fresh roadkill (think more "forest nap" gone wrong).
Fear not, for Illinois DNR (Department of Natural Resources) has a plan for both!
Roadkill Round-Up: Claiming Your Culinary Carnage
Found a deer victim of the asphalt? Here's the deal:
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
- Only Illinois residents who are child support payment squeaky clean can claim roadkill. Sorry out-of-staters, this deer buffet is local-vore only.
- The clock is ticking! You have a mere 24 hours to report your roadkill bounty to the IDNR. Don't worry, it's an online form, so you can avoid the awkwardness of phoning them and saying, "Hey, I uh, totaled a deer and, uh, wanna eat it?" Illinois Department of Natural Resources Claim a Road Kill Deer
- Sharing is caring (with the DNR, that is). They'll want some info on the deer's demise, so be prepared to spill the beans (metaphorically, of course).
Random Roadside Roe: When Bambi Checks Out Mysteriously
Now, let's say you find a deceased deer that wasn't exactly a recent road casualty. Here's where things get a bit more complicated:
- Don't just yoink those antlers and hoof it! Contact a Conservation Police Officer or your nearest DNR Regional Law Enforcement office. They'll be the judge (deer-ge?) of whether you can take possession.
- Be prepared to answer some questions. The DNR wants to make sure Bambi wasn't a victim of foul play (deer play?). They might ask you for the details of where you found the deer and even request photographic evidence (think "deer selfies," but from a respectful distance).
- Patience, young grasshopper. If the DNR gives you the green light, they'll issue a salvage tag. This magical tag allows you to legally transport and, presumably, consume your not-so-random roadside Roe.
Remember: Always prioritize safety! Don't move a deer in the road if it poses a danger to yourself or others.
FAQ: Salvage Tag Savvy
How to claim a roadkill deer?
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
Report it to the IDNR within 24 hours through their online form. Illinois Department of Natural Resources Claim a Road Kill Deer
How to get a salvage tag for a non-roadkill deer?
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Contact a Conservation Police Officer or your nearest DNR Regional Law Enforcement office for permission and a possible tag.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
How long do I have to report a roadkill deer?
24 hours. Don't dilly-dally!
Can anyone claim a roadkill deer?
QuickTip: Check if a section answers your question.
Only Illinois residents who are current on child support payments.
Is there a cost for a salvage tag?
Nope! It's free (just like finding free meat...sort of).
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