87-5-401. Creation of game preserves and general provisions. (1) There are game preserves within the state for the better protection of all the game animals and birds within their limits. Except as otherwise provided in this part, no person may, within the limits of a game preserve created by the legislature or by the commission, hunt for, trap, capture, kill, or take game animals, fur-bearing animals, or birds of any kind. Within the limits of a preserve, a person may not carry or discharge firearms, create any unusual disturbance tending to frighten or drive away any of the game animals or birds, or chase them with dogs. The commission may declare any preserve open to the trapping of fur-bearing animals during the regular open season.

(2) Permits to capture animals or birds for the purpose of propagation or for scientific purposes, to trap fur-bearing animals, to destroy mountain lions, wolves, foxes, coyotes, wildcats, lynx, or other predatory animals or birds, or to carry firearms may be issued by the director upon the payment of the fee and in accordance with rules established for the preserve by the commission.