FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2004
CONTACT: Dale Gates, 223-7700

Dove Season Open, Remember Special Regulations

PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s 2004 dove season opened Wednesday, Sept. 1, and hunters are reminded about state hunting regulations that are unique to doves.

"Mourning doves are migratory birds, and dove hunters should be aware that both state and federal regulations apply when hunting doves," said Regional Law Enforcement Specialist Dale Gates of Pierre. "Some state regulations are necessary to prevent damage to electrical and phone lines, and are also intended to promote dove hunting as an ethical activity." He added that Eurasian Collared doves can also be hunted during this season.

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.sdgfp.info to purchase licenses or to see the current list of agents.

Gates 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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