Late season dove hunting underway

Arizona hunters can get their second shot at doves now through Jan. 6.

Unlike the 15-day season that starts Sept. 1, the Arizona Game & Fish Department (AZGFD) permits a 45-day season that started Nov. 23. A 15-bird daily bag limit — all of which must be mourning doves — and a 45-bird limit remains in place for the second season.

As always, there are no limits for the invasive Eurasian collared-dove, according to AZGFD.

In-state residents can get a required hunting license for $37. The fee is $5 for youth hunters ages 10 to 17, and children 9 and under do not need a license when accompanied by a licensed adult.

Adult hunters must also have an Arizona migratory bird stamp at a cost of $5.

Some other rules to keep in mind: shooting hours are 30 minutes before legal sunrise until legal sunset; one fully feathered wing must remain attached to each harvested dove until it reaches the hunter’s home; and dove hunters are responsible for cleaning up shell casings and other debris or could face fines and loss of hunting privileges for up to five years.

Licenses can be purchased online at www. azgfd.com/License or from any license dealer (mainly sporting goods stores). They may also be purchased in person at an AZGFD location, including the one in Yuma at 9140 E. 28th St.