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Texas offers a diverse and thrilling bird hunting experience, from the rolling plains of the Panhandle to the coastal marshes of the Gulf. Whether you’re pursuing upland game or migratory birds, the Lone Star State provides ample opportunities for hunters of all levels.

? Popular Game Birds in Texas

Upland Game Birds

• Bobwhite Quail: Found throughout Texas, especially in the Panhandle and South Texas brush country. 
• Scaled (Blue) Quail: Inhabit arid regions of West Texas. 
• Gambel’s Quail: Primarily located in the Trans-Pecos region. 
• Ring-necked Pheasant: Common in the High Plains and Panhandle areas. 
• Chachalaca: Unique to the Rio Grande Valley, offering a distinctive hunting experience.

Migratory Game Birds

• Dove (Mourning & White-winged): Abundant statewide, with peak hunting in South and Central Texas.
• Ducks (Various Species): Best hunting along the Gulf Coast and in East Texas wetlands.
• Geese (Snow, Canada, Specklebelly): Concentrated in the coastal prairies and Panhandle regions. 
• Sandhill Crane: Found in the Panhandle and coastal areas. 
• American Woodcock: Occasionally hunted in East Texas during migration periods.

? 2024–2025 Bird Hunting Seasons

Upland Game Birds

• Quail: Oct. 26, 2024 – Feb. 23, 2025
• Pheasant: Dec. 7 – Jan. 5, 2025 (Panhandle counties)
• Chachalaca: Oct. 26, 2024 – Feb. 23, 2025

Migratory Game Birds

• Dove:
• North Zone: Sept. 1 – Nov. 10 & Dec. 20 – Jan. 7
• Central Zone: Sept. 1 – Oct. 27 & Dec. 13 – Jan. 14
• South Zone: Sept. 14 – Oct. 27 & Dec. 13 – Jan. 21
• Teal (Early Season): Sept. 14 – 29, 2024 
• Regular Duck Season: Varies by zone; consult the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for specific dates.
• Goose Season: Varies by zone; consult the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for specific dates.
• Sandhill Crane: Varies by zone; consult the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for specific dates.

Note: Always verify current regulations and dates with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department before planning your hunt.

? Top Bird Hunting Locations in Texas

• South Texas Brush Country: Renowned for high densities of bobwhite quail and white-winged dove. 
• Texas Panhandle: Offers excellent pheasant and quail hunting opportunities.
• East Texas: Features woodcock and duck hunting in forested wetlands. 
• Coastal Prairies: Prime habitat for waterfowl, including ducks and geese.
• Rio Grande Valley: Unique hunting for chachalaca and white-winged dove. 

? Recommended Shotguns for Bird Hunting

• Browning Citori Gran Lightning: A versatile over/under shotgun suitable for various upland game. 
• Weatherby Orion I (20-gauge): Lightweight and comfortable, ideal for quail and dove hunting.
• Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus: Reliable semi-automatic, excellent for waterfowl hunting. 
• Remington 870 FieldMaster: Durable pump-action shotgun, great for beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
• Benelli Montefeltro: Lightweight semi-automatic, perfect for long days in the field.

? Essential Gear for Bird Hunting

• Ammunition: Use appropriate shot sizes; #7.5 or #8 for dove and quail, #2 to #4 for ducks and geese.
• Clothing: Wear camouflage or earth-toned clothing to blend into the environment; waterproof gear is essential for waterfowl hunting.
• Footwear: Comfortable, waterproof boots are crucial for traversing varied terrains.
• Accessories: Include a quality game vest, shooting glasses, hearing protection, and a reliable cooler for game storage.
• Dogs: Well-trained retrievers or pointing breeds can significantly enhance hunting success.

? Licensing and Regulations

• Hunting License: All hunters must possess a valid Texas hunting license. 
• Endorsements: A Migratory Game Bird Endorsement is required for hunting migratory species. 
• Federal Duck Stamp: Mandatory for waterfowl hunters aged 16 and older. 
• HIP Certification: Required for all migratory bird hunters; available when purchasing your license. 

Ensure compliance with all local and federal hunting regulations.

Texas offers a rich and varied bird hunting experience, catering to both novice and seasoned hunters. With proper preparation, knowledge of regulations, and respect for the land and wildlife, hunters can enjoy a rewarding season across the state’s diverse habitats.