Population

• Human encroachment reduces antelope habitats.route far west image by A74.FR Ben Fontaine from Fotolia.com
  
  Populations have diminished significantly since the mid-1980s, according to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. Their losses are attributed to environmental stresses in their primary habitat, the Trans-Pecos. Long periods without rain have starved the animals, and decreased plant life makes the young vulnerable to predators. Large ranches cut into smaller ones shrinks the antelope's home ranges, and many die in fencing each year.
  
  

Restrictions

• With populations at historic lows, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department allows pronghorn hunting by permit only. Studies are conducted each year to determine how to best manage the wildlife resource. The agency issues permits to landowners and offers a limited number of permits in state drawings to raise funds. Ranchers often sell the permits to generate revenue.
  
  

Hunting

• Antelope hunts in Texas can cost thousands of dollars. The Panhandle offers some of the most affordable. Hunts on quality ranches can cost half of what it does in West Texas or the Trans-Pecos. These hunts frequently include lodging and meals, and almost always include a guide. Most ranches guarantee you will see and and have an opportunity to shoot an antelope.