ALBANY – The state Department of Environmental Conservation is now accepting applications for its annual day-old pheasant chick program.

The DEC distributes day-old pheasants to qualified people who meet conditions for rearing them. Participants are required to release the chicks no later than Dec. 1 into approved areas.

The program’s goal is to let citizens rear pheasant chicks for release into public hunting areas, thereby increasing pheasant hunting opportunities in the state.

Any New York state resident who would like to raise the chicks is required to fill out an application, as well as provide shelter that meets specific requirements, including a brooding facility, covered outdoor rearing pen and adequate release site.

Release sites cannot be private hunting preserves and must be pre-approved by the DEC. Applicants must be able to provide daily care for the chicks, including giving fresh water and food, as well as checking the overall health of the birds.

The program is funded through the state Conservation Fund from license fees paid by hunters, trappers, and anglers. DEC distributed more than 31,000 chicks last year.

Applications need to be submitted no later than March 25 of this year. For more information and to get an application, contact the DEC Region 5 headquarters in Ray Brook at 518-897-1200 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7271.html.