Undated (AP) _ The dove is probably the most popular game bird in the United States, and regulations for hunting it are probably the most controversial. An estimated 50 million of the speedy birds are harvested by hunters each year. ... Federal law is clear; it is illegal to shoot, or attempt to shoot, doves over bait.

Can you shoot doves on the ground?

What is Legal? You can hunt doves on, over, or from: Lands or areas where seeds or grains have been scattered solely as the result of normal agricultural operations, which include normal agricultural harvestings, normal agricultural post- harvest manipulations, or normal agricultural practices.

Are doves protected by law?

Mourning doves and other migratory birds are a national resource protected under the MigratoryBird Treaty Act. ... Federal and State regulations help ensure that these birds continue to thrive while providing hunting opportunities.