Mourning Doves

Iowa became the 42nd state to have a hunting season for mourning doves in 2011. Dove hunting provides an opportunity for hunters of any age or experience level to participate due to an abundance of birds, simple equipment needs and moderate physical activity.

Doves are a  migratory bird and can be found in all 99 counties with highest populations in the Loess Hills and southern three tiers of Iowa counties. They prefer open habitats such as farmland, prairies, grasslands and lightly wooded areas.

• Dove Hunting in Iowa Guide
• Landowner Tips for Attracting Doves
• Food Plot Sites: DNR Wildlife Management Areas & IHAP Sites with Food Plots Attractive to Doves

Migratory Game Bird Season Dates

We work hard to keep our calendar current, but always refer to the hunting regulation booklet for official, legal season dates.

• Metropolitan Goose Hunting Season (in specified areas): Only in designated zones around Des Moines, Cedar Rapids/Iowa City and Cedar Falls/Waterloo. Special regulations apply. 

  Maps: 

  • Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Zone
  • Des Moines Zone
  • Waterloo/Cedar Falls Zone
• Light Geese Conservation Order (additional regulations apply. Jan. 26 - May 1, 2025)

Harvest Information Program (HIP)

Hunters who plan to pursue migratory game birds will be required to register for Harvest Information Program (HIP). Migratory game birds mean more than ducks and geese; it includes ducks, geese, coots, doves, woodcock, rails, and snipe.

Once registered, hunters will need to write their confirmation number on the line provided at the top of their hunting license as proof of registration. The HIP registration can be found in the GoOutdoorsIowa mobile app by clicking on the purchase license link below, and then logging in to your account.

• Register for HIP