State closes two wildlife areas

RIO ARRIBA COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) - This is birthing season for deer and elk.

In order to protect the animals during this critical time, the State Game and Fish Department announced Sunday it is temporarily closing a couple of New Mexico wildlife areas.

They include the Rio Chama and Humphries Wildlife areas in Northern New Mexico. The wildlife areas are closed until Memorial Day weekend for shed hunting, horseback riding and hiking.

The only exception to the closures will be for hunters who draw for a special turkey hunt between April 15-30.