What are game tags required for in California hunting?

Game tags in California are essential for validating the kill of certain game species. When a hunter successfully takes a game animal, they must attach the appropriate game tag to the animal before they move it from the location of the kill. This tagging system serves multiple purposes: it ensures that hunters are complying with state regulations regarding hunting limits and helps manage wildlife populations by tracking the number and types of animals harvested during a given season. The requirement for game tags is part of California's effort to promote responsible and sustainable hunting practices, protecting both wildlife and the interests of hunters. Each game tag corresponds to specific game species and is issued based on the hunter's license, emphasizing the importance of controlled hunting to maintain ecological balance.