CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire's Fish and Game Department says preliminary reports show 368 deer have been taken during this year's Youth Deer Hunt Weekend, down 8 percent from last year.

This year's unofficial total doesn't include information from all registration stations. It is slightly above the average since the special youth hunt started in 1999.

The youth deer weekend, held Oct 24-25 this year, gives young people statewide the opportunity to go deer hunting with an adult mentor. Accompanying adults must be licensed hunters and are not allowed to carry a firearm.

Youth also may hunt in New Hampshire during the regular deer seasons. All youth hunters under age 16 must be accompanied by a licensed adult 18 and older while hunting.