Mourning dove hunting season approaches amid weather shifts

The mourning dove hunting season is set to open on September 1 in most states. While the season offers a significant opportunity for shotgun enthusiasts, hunters are advised to prepare for challenging migratory patterns.

In the Imperial Valley, recent monsoonal thunder showers and winds have scattered dove populations. While some white wing doves may have moved south, Eurasian collared dove numbers remain stable due to local hatching. Hunters in the region are encouraged to scout flyways and prioritize water access due to extreme desert temperatures exceeding 110 degrees. Notably, Ramer Lake is currently closed to hunting due to levee repairs, though other fields near Calipatria and the San Jacinto Wildlife Area remain viable options.

General hunting regulations typically allow for a daily bag limit of 15 birds and a possession limit of 45. Because doves are highly sensitive to weather, seasonal storms and dropping temperatures can trigger rapid southward migrations.