As a hunter it is your responsibility to identify the bird before the shot!
MOURNING DOVE
These birds fly with white-winged doves, but can be distinguished by their more rapid wing beat, more erratic flight path and pointed tail. In fall, the highest densities are found in the desert agricultural areas, around water sources and desert areas where annual plants and seeds are abundant.
WHITE-WINGED DOVE
These birds are somewhat larger than a mourning dove with a white bar on the upper wing surface and a long, moderately rounded tail. The range of white-winged doves generally coincides with the distribution of the saguaro cactus.
Eurasian Collared Dove
are larger than both the native white-winged and mourning doves. They have a black collar on the top part of the neck, pale gray coloration, and dark primary feathers. These doves are an introduced species that have recently expanded their range into Arizona. Originally native on the Indian subcontinent, this bird was introduced to the Bahamas in the 1970's and quickly spread to Florida. They are widely distributed in Arizona.
PROTECTED BIRDS WHICH MAY NOT BE HUNTED INCLUDE THE INCA DOVE
AND GROUND DOVE.
Smaller birds, about half the size of a mourning dove. Both are gray and fly close to the ground with rapid wingbeats. The inca has a scaly appearance with a long tail that has white margins. Ground dove have a short, round dark tail. Common summer resident in the better watered valleys, mostly south of the Mogollon Rim. For artistic renderings of the Inca and Ground Dove please review the AZGFD's Dove Regulations.
FUN FACT
Eurasian Collared-dove can be hunted year round in Arizona and there is no bag or possession limit. They can be difficult to hunt because they tend to congregate around buildings much like pigeons and with the 1/4 mile laws related to hunting near occupied structures you will most likely need the permission from a landowner in a rural part of Yuma County to be successful.
