Delaney Keppner reports for Rochester First that small game hunting begins Oct. 1 in many parts of New York. Ruffed grouse, rabbit, coyote, and pheasant seasons all begin Oct. 1. The Department of Environmental Conservation is releasing about 30,000 adult pheasants on public land this year. While ruffed grouse hunting is allowed, shooting spruce grouse, an state-endangered species, is illegal and the DEC has tips for hunters to help distinguish which species is which on their website. “Every fall, more than 60,000 hunters venture afield to pursue New York’s abundant small game species,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “It’s a great way to introduce new hunters to the sport and teach them how to be a safe and responsible member of the hunting community while reconnecting to the outdoors, establishing new traditions, and experiencing New York’s diverse wildlife.” Deer and bear hunting season opens Nov. 20. Read more about this story at Rochester First.