Varmint hunting is popular for a variety of reasons. Not only is it a lot of fun, but it can actively improve the environment as well. A lot of varmint hunting focuses on the removal of either indigenous species that have become overpopulated or invasive species that are actively damaging the ecosystem.
However, different calibers are, if not necessary, at least very helpful when hunting varmints of various size. For convenience, this list covers calibers that are commonly available as AR-15-compatible upper receivers, bolts, and magazines. All of them, along with a .300 AAC Blackout upper, which will come in handy later, are available from Ammunition Depot.
European Hare
Rabbits are undeniably very cute little beasts. Unfortunately, when their populations burgeon, they can absolutely devastate vegetation. Hungry rabbits will eat plants down to the roots, and then eat the roots as well. Not to mention that they breed like, well, rabbits. The European hare in particular, is an invasive creature that’s been responsible for untold destruction in Australia, the UK, and the Americas. Texas has recently been having problems with them as well.
They are also good eating. Find out the local hunting regulations for rabbits and you can do some environmental good by harvesting them. Fortunately, .22 LR ammo is great for taking out rabbits, and .22 caliber uppers for the AR-15 are plentiful. At a distance, a .223 Remington can work for rabbits too, but risks being overkill.
Starlings
Released into NYC’s Central Park in the 19th century by a fan of Shakespeare who absurdly decided that he wanted every species of bird mentioned by the bard to live in the U.S., the European starling has proved an ecological disaster. They out-compete many native species and breed prolifically, with an estimated 200 million of them now happily residing in the U.S.
Starlings can be harvested with an air gun, but if the terrain is safe for the use of a .22 LR, that will guarantee that they are stopped and dropped. Due to the great damage they do to native wildlife and the ecosystem in general, feel free to harvest a good bunch of them with the knowledge that you’re doing a good thing for Mother Nature.
Feral Pigs and Warthogs
Feral pigs (wild boar, wild hogs) are one of the “dirty dozen,” the 12 invasive species doing the most damage and posing the most risk to the ecosystem of the U.S. They also do an estimated $1.5 billion in damage here every year to agriculture and the environment.
But keep in mind that feral pigs are also a dangerous species to hunt. Many hunters insist that they are more dangerous than bear. They have razor-sharp tusks and can top 600 pounds. That requires a caliber you know will do the job. Enter the .300 AAC Blackout. It’s AR-15 compatible but packs a greater wallop than the .223 Remington. Good luck hunting!
For all of your hunting, defense, or just having fun ammo needs, visit https://www.ammunitiondepot.com/