Count of antlerless deer kills lowest in 5 years

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Hunters in Missouri killed more than 6,500 deer during the antlerless portion of the hunting season this year, marking a five-year low.

The Columbia Missourian reported the antlerless firearm part of hunting season usually is 12 days but was reduced to three this year. Missouri Department of Conservation spokesman Joe Jerek said the season was shortened to help the deer herd grow.

In previous years, antlerless kill counts were about 9,000. The archery part of hunting season continues through Jan. 15.