Dept. of Game, Fish and Parks
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2003
For more information:  Dave McCrea, 773-4243

HUNTING REGULATIONS UNIQUE TO MOURNING DOVES

PIERRE - Mourning dove hunters are reminded about South Dakota’s hunting regulations that are unique to doves.

"Mourning doves have a special status in South Dakota, mainly for being a migratory game bird and because regulations are necessary to prevent damage to electrical and phone lines," said Law Enforcement Specialist Dave McCrea. "Doves can only legally be shot while in flight, and dove hunters must stay at least 50 yards from any public road. Hunting doves from a public road or public road right-of-way is prohibited."

Because doves are a migratory species, dove hunters, both resident and nonresident, must purchase the appropriate small game license and Migratory Bird Certification. Both can be purchased online or at license agents across the state. Go to www.state.sd.us/gfp/ to purchase licenses or to see the current list of agents.

McCrea added that youth under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or other responsible adult while dove hunting. Parent, guardian or other responsible adult is defined as any person 18 years of age or older.

Non-toxic shot is required for dove hunting on state Game Production Areas, federal Waterfowl Production Areas, state Park and Recreation Areas and Lakeside Use Areas, state Water Access Areas, U.S. Army Corps of Engineer lands and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation lands managed by Game, Fish and Parks. Pump-action and semi-automatic firearms must be plugged so they hold no more than three shells.

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