Illinois Closes Seasons for Hunting, Trapping Gray Foxes

State officials cite a decline in the gray fox population and believe closing the seasons might help a rebound.

•  By Alan Clemons
•  August 29, 2025
•    https://www.grandviewoutdoors.com/fox/illinois-closes-seasons-for-hunting-trapping-gray-foxes

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Hunting and trapping seasons for gray foxes are closed in Illinois, with surveys and preliminary results of current research indicating a substantial decline in gray fox distribution and abundance during the past 10 years. Although Illinois hunters and trappers harvest few gray foxes, this closure will remove additional pressure and additive mortality from harvest. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will continue to conduct annual surveys and evaluate the gray fox population.

On June 30, Gov. JB Pritzker signed into law Public Act 104-0019, which changed language in the Illinois Wildlife Code and allows IDNR to open or close the gray fox season by administrative rule. This bill was an IDNR initiative with broad support from diverse conservation groups including the Illinois Trappers Association and support from state legislators. On July 9, the department filed administrative rules indefinitely closing the hunting and trapping seasons for gray foxes.

Research indicates the gray fox population is on the decline. The closure of the hunting and trapping seasons is a responsible change to protect the species and is supported by most hunters and trappers. Reasons for this decline are complex. Most research indicates that diseases such as canine distemper and competition from other canids, such as coyotes, are the primary causes.

IDNR uses the best available science to guide the management of furbearers in the state. During the past 25 years, the department opened a trapping season for river otters and a hunting and trapping season for bobcats. Data from research and surveys indicate the populations can support a carefully managed otter and bobcat season and allow these species to thrive throughout the state. IDNR will continue to monitor the gray fox population and look for ways to reverse the decline.