New Hunting Guidelines for Migratory Birds In Effect

New hunting regulations for migratory game birds went into effect Sept. 1 in accordance with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s annual guidelines.
The new regulations include an increase in the mallard duck daily bag limit. Hunters may now harvest four mallards a day, with no more than two hens.
The 2023-2024 migratory game bird seasons are scheduled as follows:
*Mourning dove: Sept. 1-Oct. 8, Oct. 30-Nov. 12 and Dec. 18-Jan. 24.
*Sora and Virginia rail: Sept. 1-Nov. 9.
*Wilson’s snipe: Sept. 1-Dec. 16.
*Early Canada goose: Sept. 1-10.
*Canada goose, white-fronted geese, snow and blue goose: Oct. 1-21,
Nov. 6-12 and Dec. 11-Jan. 31.
*Duck, coots and merganser: Oct. 1-14, Nov. 6-12 and Dec. 24 to Jan.
31.
*Scaup: Oct. 1-14, Nov. 6-12, Dec. 24 to Jan. 11, Jan. 12-31.
*Gallinules: Oct. 1-14 and Dec. 7-Jan. 31.
*Woodcock: Oct. 14-Nov. 18 and Nov. 27-Dec. 5
*Brant: Jan. 2-31.
The youth waterfowl season dates are scheduled for Sept. 16 and Nov. 4.
Federal regulations require all licensed migratory bird hunters, including lifetime license holders and senior citizens, to register with the Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program and carry proof of registration while hunting. HIP cards are free and available at all hunting license agents and online at WVhunt.com.
Waterfowl hunters 16 years and older must also possess a federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, also known as a Duck Stamp, which must be signed by the hunter across the stamp’s face. Duck Stamps can be purchased from post offices, by calling 800.782.6724 or by going to USPS.com/shop.
Hunters must report harvested banded birds online at reportband.gov.