MONROE — U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito and U.S. Sen. Jim Justice spent part of Labor Day weekend together during West Virginia’s opening dove hunting season, where the day proved considerably less enjoyable for the birds.
“Enjoyed the dove hunt with Senator Jim Justice. Such a beautiful day in Monroe County. Thanks Jim!” Capito wrote on social media.
The senators’ outing came as hunters across West Virginia took to the fields for the traditional start of the state’s hunting seasons. Dove season draws significant interest on opening day.
West Virginia has extensive habitat suitable for mourning doves, and the state Division of Natural Resources manages public hunting areas specifically to provide opportunities for dove hunters. In several locations across DNR districts, fields are planted with millet and other grasses and cut shortly before the season opens, creating feeding areas that can attract doves.
Because doves are classified as migratory birds, hunters must follow federal regulations in addition to state hunting requirements. Shotguns used for dove hunting must be plugged to limit their capacity, and hunters are required to obtain a Harvest Information Program, or HIP, card through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to provide information about migratory bird harvests.
Hunters often use camouflage and wait along the perimeter of fields where doves are likely to travel between feeding and resting areas. The amount of hunting activity can also affect how birds move.
For hunters taking part in the season, officials recommend being familiar with both state and federal regulations before entering the field, including licensing, migratory bird requirements, shooting hours and shotgun restrictions.
