MADISON, Wis. -- Wisconsin's youth deer hunt is under way.

Residents between the ages of 12 and 15 who have completed a hunter's safety course and have a gun deer license are eligible for the hunt that runs through Sunday. They must be accompanied by a mentor who isn't hunting with a gun.

The annual youth hunt was established seven years ago to introduce children to deer hunting when there are fewer hunters in the woods. Wisconsin's traditional gun deer hunt will be held next month.

State wildlife officials require all hunters except duck hunters to wear blaze orange this weekend. They recommend hikers, bird watchers and other outdoors enthusiasts do the same.