FALL IN NEW MEXICO: WILDLIFE EVENTS, OUTDOOR CLASSES AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Fall has arrived in New Mexico, bringing cooler temperatures, shorter days and plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors.

The New Mexico Department of Wildlife is welcoming the season with educational programs, safety courses, creative contests and family-friendly activities across the state.

Whether you’re interested in wildlife, hunting, off-road adventures or simply learning more about New Mexico’s natural environment, there are several opportunities to get involved this October and beyond.

NEW MEXICO FISH ART CONTEST RETURNS FOR A SECOND YEAR

Young artists across New Mexico have another opportunity to showcase their creativity while learning about the state’s aquatic wildlife.

The New Mexico Department of Wildlife has announced its second annual Fish Art Contest, part of the national Art of Conservation program sponsored by Wildlife Forever.

Students in kindergarten through 12th grade are invited to create artwork featuring fish species found in New Mexico.

This year’s competition welcomes both traditional two-dimensional artwork and digital creations. AI-generated or AI-modified artwork is not permitted.

Participants will compete in grade-level divisions, with prizes that may include art supplies, fishing equipment and fishing experiences.

Winning entries will also advance to the national competition.

Entry Deadline: February 28, 2027

For contest rules, eligible species and submission information, visit NEW MEXICO FISH ART CONTEST DETAILS.

NEW MEXICO BIRDING BIG YEAR CONTINUES

Birdwatchers throughout New Mexico are continuing their efforts to identify and document as many bird species as possible during the state’s Birding Big Year competition.

The program encourages participants to explore different habitats, improve their bird identification skills and develop a greater appreciation for the state’s diverse bird populations.

The September quarterly reporting deadline was October 7, 2026. Participants were asked to submit their updated species totals as part of the competition.

Current standings, contest information and future announcements are available through the Department of Wildlife.

Learn more by visiting the NEW MEXICO BIRDING BIG YEAR PAGE.

HUNTER EDUCATION CLASSES AVAILABLE ACROSS NEW MEXICO

With hunting season underway and preparations beginning for next year’s Big Game Draw, the New Mexico Department of Wildlife is offering several Hunter Education courses.

These classes teach essential skills, including firearm safety, hunting regulations, wildlife conservation and responsible outdoor practices.

Prospective hunters younger than 18 must complete the required hunter education training before applying for the Big Game Draw or participating in hunting activities in New Mexico.

Adults are also encouraged to participate, especially those interested in refreshing their knowledge of hunting safety.

Upcoming October classes include:

• October 9–10: Hunter Education in Virden
• October 10–11: Hunter Education in Clovis
• October 10–11: Hunter Education at White Sands Missile Range
• October 17–18: Hunter Education in Santa Teresa

Additional classes may be added throughout the season.

Registration is available through the Department’s online licensing system. Participants must sign in using their Customer Identification Number account and select Hunter Education.

To register, visit NEW MEXICO HUNTER EDUCATION REGISTRATION.

Online education options are also available for participants ages 9 and older. Visit the NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE WEBSITE for additional information.

ATV AND OFF-ROAD VEHICLE SAFETY COURSES

New Mexico offers an incredible variety of landscapes for off-road recreation, from desert trails to mountain terrain.

To help riders enjoy these areas safely, the New Mexico Department of Wildlife is offering all-terrain vehicle and recreational off-highway vehicle safety courses.

The classes are designed for riders ages 6 and older and cover essential safety practices, responsible riding techniques and applicable regulations.

Scheduled classes include:

• October 10: Roswell — Southeast Area Office, 1615 W. College Boulevard
• October 17: Los Lunas — Riverside Park, 1601 E. Main Street
• November 7: Los Lunas — Riverside Park
• November 21: Farmington — Glade Run Recreation Area

Participants who successfully complete the training will receive an OHV Safety Permit.

The permit is required for riders under 18 operating off-highway vehicles on public lands or certain authorized paved roads in New Mexico.

ATVs and safety equipment will be available during the courses, although students may also bring their own equipment.

Registration must be completed through each participant’s individual customer account.

For registration, visit REGISTER FOR ATV SAFETY TRAINING.

Additional riding regulations and safety resources are available at RIDE NEW MEXICO.

BE BEAR AWARE THIS FALL

As New Mexicans spend more time enjoying the outdoors, wildlife officials are reminding residents and visitors to remain aware of bears.

The Department of Wildlife has reported an increase in human-bear encounters during 2026, making preventive measures especially important.

Environmental conditions and changes in natural food availability can influence bear activity and increase the likelihood of encounters near residential areas.

Fortunately, several simple precautions can help protect both people and wildlife.

KEEP FOOD AND GARBAGE SECURE

Unsecured garbage is a major attraction for bears. Residents should store trash in sturdy, closed containers, preferably inside a secure garage or building.

Garbage should not be placed outside the night before collection.

Pet food should also be kept indoors, and outdoor grills should be cleaned after use to remove grease and food residue.

PAY ATTENTION TO BIRD FEEDERS AND FRUIT TREES

Birdseed, hummingbird feeders and fallen fruit can attract bears searching for food.

Homeowners should avoid leaving excessive birdseed outside, bring hummingbird feeders indoors at night and remove ripe or fallen fruit from their properties.

KNOW WHAT TO DO IF YOU ENCOUNTER A BEAR

If you encounter a bear, do not run.

Instead, remain calm, make yourself appear larger, speak firmly and slowly back away while giving the animal space.

Never position yourself between a mother bear and her cubs.

Bear behavior and appropriate responses can vary depending on the situation, so learning recommended safety practices before heading outdoors is important.

For more information, visit the NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE and explore its Living With Wildlife resources.

KIDS CORNER: LEARNING TO BUILD A NATURE SHELTER

New Mexico’s diverse landscapes provide an excellent outdoor classroom for young explorers.

From the sunny deserts of southern New Mexico to the cooler mountain forests of the north, different environments present unique challenges for people and wildlife.

One fun educational activity for children is learning how to construct a temporary shelter using natural materials.

A simple lean-to shelter can demonstrate how branches, leaves and other materials help provide shade and protection from the elements.

CHOOSE A SAFE LOCATION

Before beginning, children should examine the surrounding area for hazards such as unstable branches, cactus, insect nests and animal dens.

Adult supervision is important throughout the activity.

COLLECT MATERIALS RESPONSIBLY

Young builders are encouraged to follow the 3D rule when gathering materials: dead, down and detached.

This means using fallen branches and other natural materials rather than damaging living plants or trees.

BUILD THE SHELTER

Begin with a sturdy branch that can serve as the main support, sometimes called a ridgepole.

Lean smaller branches against it to create a sloping frame, then add twigs, leaves, pine needles or dry grass to help block wind and provide insulation.

Once the shelter is complete, children can explore how the structure changes the amount of shade or protection inside.

LEAVE NO TRACE

After completing the activity, families should dismantle the shelter, scatter the natural materials and remove anything they brought with them.

This helps preserve New Mexico’s natural spaces for wildlife and future visitors.

UPCOMING NEW MEXICO WILDLIFE EVENTS

The New Mexico Department of Wildlife has announced several educational opportunities and public events for the coming weeks.

• October 9–10: Hunter Education — Virden
• October 10–11: Hunter Education — Clovis
• October 10–11: Hunter Education — White Sands Missile Range
• October 10: ATV Safety Course — Roswell
• October 17: ATV Safety Course — Los Lunas
• October 17–18: Hunter Education — Santa Teresa
• November 7: ATV Safety Course — Los Lunas
• November 13: State Wildlife Commission Meeting — Red River
• November 21: ATV Safety Course — Farmington

Schedules and availability may change. Participants are encouraged to confirm event details before traveling.

For the latest updates, visit the NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE EVENTS AND INFORMATION.

MAKE THE MOST OF FALL IN NEW MEXICO

Autumn is an excellent time to discover the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities that make New Mexico special.

Whether you’re enrolling in a safety course, participating in an art competition, observing local wildlife or introducing children to outdoor skills, the Department of Wildlife offers resources to help residents and visitors learn while enjoying the season.

With educational programs scheduled throughout October and November, there are plenty of ways to get outside, develop new skills and appreciate the Land of Enchantment.

Explore additional programs and announcements at WILDLIFE.DGF.NM.GOV.