Also known as: Mourning dove, Turtle dove, Carolina dove
The mourning dove is a member of the dove family, Columbidae. The bird is also known as the American mourning dove, the rain dove, the chueybird, and colloquially as the turtle dove, and it was once known as the Carolina pigeon and Carolina turtledove. It is one of the most abundant and widespread North American birds and a popular gamebird, with more than 20 million birds shot annually in the U.S., both for sport and meat. Its ability to sustain its population under such pressure is due to its prolific breeding; in warm areas, one pair may raise up to six broods of two young each in a single year. The wings make an unusual whistling sound upon take-off and landing, a form of sonation. The bird is a strong flier, capable of speeds up to 88 km/h (55 mph).
Hunting Season
Sep 1 - Sep 15 (first season). Nov 14 - Dec 28 (second season).
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Mourning Dove in California
Mourning dove hunting in California has two seasons. HIP validation is required. Upland game bird validation is not required for doves. Nonlead ammunition is required. Doves are the most hunted migratory game bird in North America. Spotted dove and ringed turtle dove have no limit. Eurasian collared-dove may be taken year-round with no limit.
When is Mourning Dove hunting season in California?
Sep 1 - Sep 15 (first season). Nov 14 - Dec 28 (second season).
What is the bag limit for Mourning Dove in California?
15 doves per day aggregate (mourning dove and white-winged dove combined). Up to 10 may be white-winged doves.
What is another name for Mourning Dove?
Mourning Dove is also known as Mourning dove, Turtle dove, Carolina dove in California.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Sep 1 - Sep 15 (first season). Nov 14 - Dec 28 (second season). | Link |
| California | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Mourning dove hunting in California has two seasons. HIP validation is required. Upland game bird validation is not requ | Link |



