Our high country tree squirrels (Abert’s, Kaibab, and red squirrels) will likely be fewer in number after the substantial drought conditions statewide that we saw for ~18 months. For more information and to register for this year’s challenge (which started September 1), go to: The Small Game Challenge was developed to encourage hunters to learn more about these and additional small game opportunities as they explore some of the most scenic country in our state. Arizona Game and Fish Department manages a variety of small game species, including five only found in the Southwest-Montezuma (Mearns’) quail, Gambel’s quail, scaled quail, Abert’s squirrel, and Kaibab squirrel (a dark Abert’s subspecies).

Registration is limited to 100 participants/year, and each person successfully completing one of the four challenges this year will receive a plaque and an engraving plate that marks the achievement, with additional space on the plaque for each of the remaining challenges. The Arizona Small Game Challenge continues for a fourth year! Arizona Game and Fish Department has teamed up with the Valley of the Sun Quail Forever Chapter (VOTSQF) to host the challenge, and VOTSQF has generously offered to match hunter registration fees dollar for dollar to enhance and improve small game species and their habitats in Arizona. Taking advantage of the myriad of opportunities to hunt small game will get you out to see some of Arizona’s most beautiful and remote landscapes!

The long dark rabbit hunting