News

Dove Hunters Busted

Published September 4, 2004. By Ed Zieralski. San Diego Union Tribune.
Dove Hunters Busted

As many as 50 dove hunters could face federal charges of hunting over baited fields in Imperial Valley on Wednesday, the first day of dove season, the Union-Tribune has learned. Special agent John Brooks of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service could not give names, but he confirmed that the USFWS is investigating baiting cases in three areas in Imperial Valley. Baiting is the practice of spreading or piling grain to attract birds to an area. It gives hunters an unfair advantage and is a federal violation. Brooks said federal agents and game wardens confiscated an estimated 250 doves, which are being kept as evidence. The hunters didn't lose their guns or vehicles, Brooks said. In two cases, the USFWS must prove that the hunters knew the fields were baited with wheat seeds that affected the flight of the birds. "It's called the zone of influence," Brooks said. But in a third case that was made Wednesday, the hunters admitted they knew grain had been spread before the opener. The hunters face fines of at least $250. "The statute maximum is $100,000 and is covered under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act," Brooks said. He said hunters should be leery of a large number of doves flying abnormally to one certain area to feed. If hunters see grain or seed strewn or piled on a field, they should avoid that area, Brooks said. Time spent scouting an area will prevent that, he said. Brooks said the confiscated doves will be wasted because the USFWS no longer donates game it confiscates to homeless shelters or the like.

Welcome | News
| Action Alert | Your Representation
| Roll Call Vote
| Facts | What Can I Do? | Contact | Your Comments

Copyright ©2004 - Songbird Protection Coalition
Questions or Comments about this site?  Email Us
Page Updated: 10/24/04