We have been discussing the roll hunters play in conservation. Here are my final thoughts on the subject.

Eurasian Collared dove

The Eurasian Collared dove is an invasive species. They are about twice the size of a mourning dove and have a black line or band on the back of their neck. There is no limit or season on these birds.

Rock dove

The rock dove is the bird we commonly call a pigeon. They can become overpopulated around farms and ranches. This can be great shooting when the owner wants to thin the population.

Remember, the pigeon is eating the same grain as the mourning dove. This makes the meat just as good eating, too.

Forest grouse

The forest grouse limit, for blue, ruffed and spruce grouse, has increased in recent years from three to four. There isn’t much word about grouse causing problems in the world, but if the population merits the taking of another bird, great.

Deer

The offering of a second deer tag is welcomed by this hunter. Some Game Management Units offer permits for the taking of a second deer. In these areas, a hunter can shoot a buck and a doe, if the hunter has a permit. Fish and Wildlife makes money from hunters submitting applications for a permit and the population of deer is controlled.

Wild boar

This is one animal we don’t need. Down south these pigs cause extensive damage to crops and farmland.

Some wild pigs were found to be living in the sand dunes west of Potholes Reservoir. My first thought was this situation would be another hunting opportunity. Then word reached this desk about the feds were going to eliminate the animals.

This was done at a time when there was the least amount of recreation taking place in the area. I was disappointed at first, but then realized getting rid of the troublesome and sometimes dangerous animals, before they established a foothold in the area, was a good idea.

Hunters and conservation

There are antihunters who think hunters just want to kill and have no feelings for the birds and animals they hunt. Hunters will volunteer to help band ducks and geese. They will try to save a deer caught in a fence.

Hunters will contribute to conservation organizations, such as the National Wild Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. These associations are dedicated to helping the specific bird or animal as indicated by the name.

Hunting and conservation go hand in hand.