IL SB0709

Extends the closing date for hunting and trapping gray fox, red fox, raccoon, weasel, mink, muskrat, badger, bobcat, and opossum from February 15 to no later than March 31, while keeping the opening date between November 1 and November 10.

Removes the provision that limited river otter harvest to 5 river otters per person per season, allowing the Director to set limits annually.

Establishes that coyote and striped skunk may be taken by trapping methods only from September 1 to March 31, but by hunting methods at any time of year.

Specifies that subsections governing general fur-bearing mammal seasons (subsection a) and coyote/striped skunk seasons (subsections e and f) cannot be modified by administrative rule.

Elevates violations of the section, including administrative rules, to Class B misdemeanor offenses.