New Jersey takes pride in its commitment to wildlife conservation. Unlike most of its lower 48 neighbors, the state offers a haven for several beautiful birds, including the mourning dove (Zenaida macroura). While many states have hunting seasons for doves, New Jersey has opted for a closed season, protecting these gentle birds throughout the year.
This commitment to conservation extends to other feathered friends as well. Swans, the strikingly elegant harlequin duck, the secretive king rail, and the majestic sandhill crane all find refuge in New Jersey. Whether soaring through the sky or gracefully gliding on the water, these birds are protected from hunting, allowing their populations to thrive within the state’s borders.
So, if you’re an avid birdwatcher, New Jersey is a fantastic place to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. From the mournful coo of the dove to the bugling call of the sandhill crane, New Jersey offers a symphony of sights and sounds for nature enthusiasts.
Is there a new jersey dove season
New Jersey currently has a closed season for mourning dove hunting. This means hunting mourning doves is not permitted within the state.
While some hunters might be interested in a dove season, official resources from the New Jersey Fish & Wildlife don’t include any regulations or details for dove hunting.
There is a closed season for dove hunting in New Jersey, and the birds are protected all year round.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the NJDEP website (https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/hunting/) for official announcements regarding the 2024-2025 hunting seasons.
- Bag and Possession Limits: Not Applicable
- Shooting Hours: Half-hour before sunrise to sunset
- Shot Size: No larger than #7 1/2 shot
- Plugging: Plugged shotguns must not hold more than three shells in the chamber and magazine combined
It’s crucial to consult the official NJDEP Hunting & Trapping Digest for the most up-to-date regulations and any potential changes before heading out. You can find the digest on the NJDEP website https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/hunting/.
Securing Your New Jersey Hunting License
Before heading out to the fields, obtaining a valid hunting license is mandatory. Here’s what you need to know:
- License Types: New Jersey offers different hunting license options depending on your residency status and age.
- Resident Hunting License: This license is required for all New Jersey residents aged 17 or older. Costs typically range around $31.50 for bow and arrow and $38.50 for firearms (prices subject to change).
- Non-Resident Hunting License:Â Non-residents planning to hunt in New Jersey will need a non-resident hunting license. Fees are generally higher than resident licenses.
- Youth Hunting License: Young hunters under 17 can participate with a proper adult supervision and a Youth Hunting License (usually free).
- Hunter Education Course: Most hunters above 10 years old require hunter education course completion with a hands-on live fire component. Exceptions include those with valid hunting licenses from other states or those exempt due to age.
Finding the Perfect Spot: Top Dove Watching Locations in New Jersey
New Jersey boasts a diverse landscape with numerous spots ideal for dove watching. Here are a few popular public hunting grounds to consider:
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): The NJDEP manages a network of WMAs across the state, providing excellent opportunities for doves. Some popular WMAs for the bird include:
- Supawna WMA (Salem County):Â This expansive WMA offers a mix of open fields, woodlands, and wetlands, creating a prime habitat.
- Pequannock WMA (Morris County):Â This diverse WMA features grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands, attracting these birds throughout the season.
- Assunpink WMA (Monmouth County):Â This WMA provides a mix of open fields, hedgerows, and woodlands, perfect for doves.
- Howell Living History Farm (Monmouth County):Â This historic farm offers dove seeing opportunities in managed fields.
- Woodford WMA (Burlington County):Â With a mix of agricultural fields and wooded areas, Woodford WMA provides ample opportunities for doves.
- Eldora WMA (Burlington County):Â This WMA offers diverse habitats, including fields, forests, and wetlands, suitable for doves.
- Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge (Sussex County): This expansive refuge provides diverse habitats for doves, including fields, forests, and wetlands.
- State Parks: While not all state parks allow hunting, some designated areas within specific parks can be excellent for bird watching. It’s crucial to check individual park regulations before venturing out.
- Public Hunting Grounds:Â Several counties and municipalities in New Jersey manage public hunting grounds that can be excellent spots for doves. Be sure to research local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before hunting on these grounds.
- Private Land (with Permission):Â If you have access to private land with suitable dove habitat, you can inquire with the landowner for permission to research doves. Always obtain written permission before hunting on private property.
