Looking for inspiration?

Alethea Edwards of Natchitoches, La., finished first in Category IV of the 2006 NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest with this rendering of a puma.

The 21st NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest is just around the corner. The deadline to enter is October 3, 2008. Around this time of the year we get a lot of phone calls (which we are always happy to take) from people asking if a certain animal is eligible for the contest.

That’s because entries may portray any North American game bird or animal that may be legally hunted or trapped. Endangered species and non-game animals, such as eagles and snakes, are not eligible subjects.

One way to find an animal for your art contest entry is to look at the State Game & Fish Information linked from our Hunter Services department.

What if you’re still not sure if an animal can be legally hunted or trapped in North America? Sometimes some online research (like using a search engine, typing the name of the animal, and then the word "hunting") can pull up some useful information.

Contestants can also call (703) 267-1595 or email artcontest@nrahq.org to confirm whether a certain animal or bird is eligible.

If you have any other suggestions on finding the right animal -- or if you have questions or comments about the contest -- let us know by posting a comment and we'll pass that information along.