The state says hunters killed and tagged more than 18,000 white-tailed deer on the opening day of Ohio's deer-gun hunting season.
The Department of Natural Resources says 18,776 deer were checked by hunters on Monday. That's down from the more than 22,200 reported the first day of the deer-gun season last year.
The current season remains open through Sunday. Two additional days of deer-gun season will be held Dec. 17 and Dec. 18.
State officials say Ohio ranks fifth nationally in resident hunters and 11th in the number of jobs associated with hunting-related industries.
Ohio's Division of Wildlife says the goal of the state's approach to deer management is to provide a deer population that maximizes recreational opportunities and minimizes conflicts with landowners and motorists.