Promising dove season predicted

If you're wondering if the heat has affected the doves, don't worry. Like most Texans, most doves are well-adapted to hot, dry conditions, particularly white-winged doves, and the season looks promising.

“Doves kick reproduction into high gear in dry years like this, and we’re seeing a lot of young birds on the landscape,” says Texas Parks and Wildlife’s dove program leader Owen Fitzsimmons.

Extreme conditions concentrate birds near water and food sources, and Fitzsimmons offers this tip: “Hunting near water will be key for opening day this year.”

Protected birds may be mixed in with your quarry, so look over the dove identifier to tell the difference. 

The regular season opens Thursday, Sept. 1 in North and Central Zones; South Zone’s Special White-wing Dove Days open Friday, Sept. 2. The daily bag limit is 15. 

For all your regulation information, including complete season dates, refer to the Outdoor Annual online or use the Outdoor Annual app.