Quick Answer
Mourning doves flock together during hunting season due to their natural behavior of gathering in large numbers at food sources, particularly during times of high food scarcity. This instinctual behavior is triggered by changes in daylight hours and temperature, signaling the start of winter. As a result, hunters can find mourning dove concentrations near fields, roadsides, and agricultural areas.
Dove Behavior Patterns
Mourning doves are highly social birds that often congregate in large flocks. These flocks can range from a few dozen to several hundred birds and are typically formed during the fall and winter months. By understanding their behavior patterns, hunters can increase their chances of finding and harvesting these birds. Mourning doves are most active during dawn and dusk when searching for food, making these times ideal for hunting.
Hunting Techniques
When hunting mourning doves, it’s essential to use techniques that allow you to effectively locate and harvest these birds. One effective method is to use a decoy spread, consisting of 10-20 decoys placed in a field or open area. The decoys should be spaced 10-15 yards apart and positioned to mimic the natural flight patterns of mourning doves. Using a shotgun with a full choke and shell loads containing 7-8 pellets can help to ensure effective kills at ranges of up to 40 yards.
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