News

Doves Spared as Referendum Heads to Ballot

Published June 3, 2005. By Chris Andrews. Lansing State Journal
Doves spared as hunt heads to ballot

Mourning doves are safe from Michigan hunters - at least for the next two years.

The state law that cleared the way for hunting in six southern counties last year is on hold until voters settle the issue in the November 2006 election. The Board of State Canvassers certified the referendum petition drive to block the law Thursday.

"The people of Michigan have made it very clear they don't want the shooting of the traditional backyard songbird," said Julie Baker, director of the Committee to Restore the Dove Shooting Ban.

Michigan United Conservation Clubs President Sam Washington said the MUCC would join with other groups to inform the public that a hunting season won't reduce the population of mourning doves in the state.

"Sport hunting is an appropriate means of managing wildlife," he said.

Hunters like the challenge of shooting mourning doves as they dart through the sky. Bird lovers say they are a peaceful songbird that should be left alone.

Last year, the Legislature voted to add the doves to the list of game species. The Natural Resources Commission approved a three-year trial hunt, which is now suspended by the referendum.

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