{"id":6854,"date":"2026-06-28T20:02:58","date_gmt":"2026-06-28T20:02:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/?p=6854"},"modified":"2026-06-28T20:03:00","modified_gmt":"2026-06-28T20:03:00","slug":"new-mexico-migratory-bird-hunting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-migratory-bird-hunting\/","title":{"rendered":"New Mexico Migratory Bird Season Guide for 2026: Dove &amp; Pigeon Dates, Limits, Licenses &amp; Where to Hunt"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>This guide covers season dates, bag limits, license costs, and land access for mourning dove, white-winged dove, and band-tailed pigeon in New Mexico. All regulatory data comes from the&nbsp;<strong>New Mexico Department of Game &amp; Fish (NMDGF)<\/strong>. Final 2026-specific dates should be confirmed in the official&nbsp;<strong>Migratory Game Bird Supplement<\/strong>, released each summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s what this guide covers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Season dates &amp; bag limits<\/strong>&nbsp;for mourning dove, white-winged dove, and band-tailed pigeon<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Licenses, permits &amp; validations<\/strong>&nbsp;you&#8217;ll need\u2014with resident and non-resident cost breakdowns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Where to hunt<\/strong>\u2014public land options, guided hunts, and private land leases across New Mexico<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/3b3d811a-9426-4314-8bf2-e3ca5b164bc1.jpeg\" alt=\"New Mexico Migratory bird\" class=\"wp-image-6861\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/3b3d811a-9426-4314-8bf2-e3ca5b164bc1.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/3b3d811a-9426-4314-8bf2-e3ca5b164bc1-300x164.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/3b3d811a-9426-4314-8bf2-e3ca5b164bc1-768x419.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick Overview: 2026 New Mexico Dove &amp; Pigeon Season at a Glance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The table below summarizes the 2026 New Mexico migratory bird seasons. All data is drawn from&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/hunting\/information-by-animal\/migratory-bird\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NMDGF<\/a>&nbsp;as the governing regulatory authority.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/download\/2025-2026-new-mexico-migratory-game-bird-hunting-rules-and-info\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2026-specific season dates are finalized in the summer Migratory Game Bird Supplement<\/a>\u2014confirm details there before you head afield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-459\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-459\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Species<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Season Type<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Season Dates (2026)<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Daily Bag Limit<\/th><th class=\"column-5\">Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Mourning \/ White-winged Dove<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Regular<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Sep 1 \u2013 Nov 20, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">15 daily (combined)<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Shooting hours sunrise to sunset; HIP required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Band-tailed Pigeon<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Regular (check regulations)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Sep 1 \u2013 Sep 30, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">5 daily<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Free band-tailed pigeon permit required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-459 from cache -->\n\n\n<p><strong>Always confirm final 2026 dates and limits in the NMDGF Migratory Game Bird Supplement before you hunt.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every New Mexico dove and pigeon hunter must carry a valid combination of licenses, permits, and certifications:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Annual Game Hunting License<\/strong>&nbsp;(resident or non-resident)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Habitat Management &amp; Access Validation (HMAV)<\/strong>&nbsp;(required for all hunters)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Habitat Stamp<\/strong>&nbsp;(required only when hunting on USFS or BLM lands)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>HIP Certification<\/strong>&nbsp;(federal Harvest Information Program\u2014mandatory for all migratory bird hunters)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Federal Migratory Bird Stamp \/ &#8220;Duck Stamp&#8221;<\/strong>&nbsp;(required for hunters age 16 and older)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Band-tailed Pigeon Permit<\/strong>&nbsp;(free; required for all pigeon hunters)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/b292e07f-0862-4a7c-822f-989f84ddc51d.jpeg\" alt=\"New Mexico Migratory bird\" class=\"wp-image-6862\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/b292e07f-0862-4a7c-822f-989f84ddc51d.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/b292e07f-0862-4a7c-822f-989f84ddc51d-300x164.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/b292e07f-0862-4a7c-822f-989f84ddc51d-768x419.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Mexico Dove &amp; Band-Tailed Pigeon Hunting Seasons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>New Mexico&#8217;s migratory bird framework covers three huntable species for wing-shooters: mourning dove, white-winged dove, and band-tailed pigeon.&nbsp;According to the New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC), &#8220;migratory game bird&#8221; includes band-tailed pigeon, mourning dove, and white-winged dove, regulated under authority granted by Section 17-1-14 and 17-1-26 NMSA 1978.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.srca.nm.gov\/nmac\/nmregister\/xxxiv\/19.31.6.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Most of the state falls within the Central Flyway; the westernmost portion\u2014west of the Continental Divide\u2014is part of the Pacific Flyway<\/a>. Your zone can affect season timing, so verify your specific location in the Supplement before hunting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mourning &amp; White-Winged Dove Season<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>New Mexico&#8217;s dove season opens&nbsp;<strong>September 1, 2026<\/strong>, and runs through&nbsp;<strong>November 20, 2026<\/strong>. The daily bag limit is&nbsp;<strong>15 doves combined<\/strong>\u2014mourning and white-winged doves count together toward one limit, not 15 of each.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/uh.app\/news\/hunting-seasons-in-new-mexico-202526-deer-hunting-big-game-and-small&lt;em&gt;bMryEGbHEfCf5MVcBMA6Tw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Shooting hours run from sunrise to sunset<\/a>, and HIP certification is required alongside your base license.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>White-winged doves concentrate heavily in southern New Mexico, particularly in agricultural valleys and desert foothills near the Mexican border, while mourning doves range more broadly across the state. If white-wings are your primary target, plan access around the south.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/download\/2025-2026-new-mexico-migratory-game-bird-hunting-rules-and-info\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Confirm zone-specific timing via the NMDGF Migratory Game Bird Supplement<\/a>&nbsp;before finalizing travel dates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Band-Tailed Pigeon Season<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The band-tailed pigeon season runs&nbsp;<strong>September 1\u201330, 2026<\/strong>, with a&nbsp;<strong>5-bird daily bag limit<\/strong>. Because this season overlaps exactly with the dove opener, non-residents can combine both hunts into a single September trip\u2014one travel window, two huntable species.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One compliance note:&nbsp;all band-tailed pigeon hunters must possess a free band-tailed pigeon permit, available online at wildlife.dgf.nm.gov, by phone at&nbsp;<strong>1-888-248-6866<\/strong>, or at NMDGF offices and authorized license vendors. The permit is free, but it is not optional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Mexico Migratory Bird Licenses and Permits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting licensed for a New Mexico dove or pigeon hunt involves a base license layer and a federal\/state permit layer on top.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/hunting\/information-by-animal\/migratory-bird\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The NMDGF<\/a>&nbsp;administers both, and everything can be secured before you leave home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Mexico Hunting Licenses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The table below outlines current license costs. Purchase through the NMDGF online portal, an authorized license vendor, or a department office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-460\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-460\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">License \/ Validation<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Resident Cost<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Non-Resident Cost<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Required For<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Annual Game Hunting License<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$25<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$90.00<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">All dove\/pigeon hunters<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Habitat Management &amp; Access Validation (HMAV)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$4<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$4.00<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">All hunters<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Habitat Stamp<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$10<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$10.00<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Hunting on USFS\/BLM lands only<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-460 from cache -->\n\n\n<p>The HMAV is required for all hunters regardless of where they hunt. The Habitat Stamp applies only when hunting U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management lands\u2014not on private or state-managed properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/bd50447e-d649-4bbf-ab08-ebebdcbbe246.jpeg\" alt=\"New Mexico Migratory bird\" class=\"wp-image-6863\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/bd50447e-d649-4bbf-ab08-ebebdcbbe246.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/bd50447e-d649-4bbf-ab08-ebebdcbbe246-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/bd50447e-d649-4bbf-ab08-ebebdcbbe246-768x429.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Mexico Hunting Permits &amp; Certifications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond the base license, dove and pigeon hunters must meet a second layer of federal and state permit requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>HIP Certification (required for all migratory bird hunters)<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.srca.nm.gov\/nmac\/nmregister\/xxxiv\/19.31.6.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Harvest Information Program (HIP) number is mandatory for migratory bird hunting in New Mexico<\/a>. Log into your NMDGF account online, call&nbsp;<strong>1-888-248-6866<\/strong>, or complete it when purchasing your license from an authorized vendor. The process takes a few minutes\u2014carry your HIP number while hunting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Federal Migratory Bird Stamp (&#8220;Duck Stamp&#8221;)<\/strong>: Required for all hunters age 16 and older.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/animalofthings.com\/dove-hunting-season-in-new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This is one of the most commonly overlooked requirements by first-time dove hunters and carries significant penalties if missed<\/a>\u2014add it to your checklist well before opening morning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Band-tailed Pigeon Permit (free, but required)<\/strong>: Required if you&#8217;re hunting pigeon.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/hunting\/information-by-animal\/migratory-bird\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Available online at wildlife.dgf.nm.gov, by phone at 1-888-248-6866, and at NMDGF offices and license vendors<\/a>\u2014secure it when you purchase your other licenses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Non-residents: all of the above applies equally. The only difference is the license cost ($90 vs. $25 for the Annual Game Hunting License). Every other requirement\u2014HMAV, HIP, Duck Stamp, and any applicable Habitat Stamp\u2014is identical regardless of residency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Mexico Migratory Bird Hunting: Where to Hunt<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Finding legal access matters as much as knowing the season dates.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stateoutdoors.org\/hunting\/seasons\/new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">As one guide notes, &#8220;access planning in this state is a huge part of success. A good tag is only half the job.&#8221;<\/a>&nbsp;New Mexico offers public land, guided outfitter experiences, and private leases, each with different trade-offs in bird density, crowd pressure, and convenience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Public Lands for Dove &amp; Pigeon Hunting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/animalofthings.com\/spring-bird-migration-in-new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">New Mexico&#8217;s dual-flyway geography produces migratory bird habitat across a wide range of public land types<\/a>, with&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/animalofthings.com\/spring-bird-migration-in-new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">birds concentrating along the Rio Grande and other river corridors, as well as the main mountain chains<\/a>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.srca.nm.gov\/nmac\/nmregister\/xxxiv\/19.31.6.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">According to NMAC regulations, the following Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) are explicitly open for dove and band-tailed pigeon hunting during established seasons<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Edward Sargent WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Northern New Mexico; a quality option for early-season pigeon hunters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>W. A. Humphries WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Authorized for dove and pigeon during established seasons<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rio Chama WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 River corridor habitat along the Chama; strong migratory bird movement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Urraca WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Open for dove and pigeon seasons under NMAC<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Colin Neblett WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Authorized during established migratory seasons<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water Canyon WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Water features concentrate dove movement throughout the season<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Marquez\/LBar WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Central New Mexico option open during established seasons<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Elliot S. Barker WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Open for dove and pigeon during established seasons<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Double E WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Lesser prairie-chicken management area also open to dove hunting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>River Ranch WMA<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Agricultural and conservation management area open during established seasons<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Hunting any USFS or BLM land requires the $10 Habitat Stamp in addition to your base license and HMAV.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/dovehunting.org\/new-mexico-dove-season\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico has over 13 million acres of BLM land and nearly 10 million acres of National Forest land open to hunting<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guided Dove &amp; Pigeon Hunts in New Mexico<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Guided hunts are worth considering, particularly for non-residents who don&#8217;t have local scouting knowledge. A good outfitter brings pre-scouted field access, current bird movement information, and established landowner relationships that take time to build on your own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When evaluating guided operations, look for outfitters who can demonstrate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Clear legal permission or lease agreements for the land being hunted<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pre-season scouting results and current bird activity reports<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transparent pricing specifying what&#8217;s included (shells, guide fees, bird cleaning, lodging)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Confirmation that they support HIP certification and proper licensing before your hunt<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>References or reviews from past clients, particularly non-residents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The September 1 opening window is peak demand for guided dove operations\u2014book early and confirm all permit requirements (Duck Stamp, HIP number, pigeon permit) with your outfitter before you arrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/d657158e-7379-43d8-98d2-3be17f39070d.jpeg\" alt=\"New Mexico Migratory bird\" class=\"wp-image-6864\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/d657158e-7379-43d8-98d2-3be17f39070d.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/d657158e-7379-43d8-98d2-3be17f39070d-300x164.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/d657158e-7379-43d8-98d2-3be17f39070d-768x419.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Private Land Hunting with Hunting Locator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Public land dove hunting can produce good results, but opening weekend pressure on well-known areas is real, and you&#8217;ll share those spots with anyone who read the same public information.\u00a0Irrigated agricultural tracts and managed fields in southern and eastern New Mexico\u2014particularly those planted with sunflowers, milo, or grain sorghum\u2014concentrate dove populations\u00a0that crowded public ground rarely matches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Water matters just as much as food.\u00a0In New Mexico&#8217;s arid landscape, hunting around stock tanks and water sources gives hunters a meaningful edge\u2014these areas draw birds seeking both food and water. Private parcels with water rights or active stock tanks are especially productive for dove season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One compliance note:\u00a0entering private property without written permission from the landowner, manager, or lessee can be adjudged criminal trespass under Chapter 30-14-1, NMSA 1978\u2014a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000 and 364 days in jail. Always secure documented permission before hunting private land.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\">Hunting Locator<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;provides a searchable database of landowners who have already indicated they&#8217;re open to leasing or selling their property for hunting access. Browse&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/new-mexico\/\">available New Mexico hunting leases on Hunting Locator<\/a>&nbsp;to find parcels that match your target region, acreage needs, and species goals\u2014whether that&#8217;s a southern agricultural flat for white-wings, a managed field for mourning dove, or a multi-species parcel for the full fall season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dove &amp; Band-Tailed Pigeon Hunting Tips for New Mexico<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hunt the water<\/strong>: In New Mexico&#8217;s dry landscape, stock tanks and water sources draw doves consistently.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.org\/hunting-and-fishing-opportunities-in-new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">These areas attract birds seeking both food and water<\/a>, and setting up downwind of a tank or pond during morning and evening movement windows tends to produce steady action.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Find the food sources<\/strong>:&nbsp;Private agricultural fields planted with sunflowers, milo, or grain sorghum concentrate dove populations far better than open scrub. Scout grain fields and harvested croplands in the days before opening day to confirm birds are actively feeding there.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Know your zone<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.srca.nm.gov\/nmac\/nmregister\/xxxiv\/19.31.6.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico&#8217;s flyway and zone structure means season timing can vary by location<\/a>. Confirm whether your hunting area falls in the Central or Pacific Flyway before you finalize your trip dates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Time your setup to movement<\/strong>: Doves are most active during the first few hours after sunrise and again in the late afternoon. Legal shooting hours run sunrise to sunset\u2014position yourself near food, water, or roost trees during these windows rather than hunting through the midday heat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use decoys at roost and feeding sites<\/strong>: Motion decoys and perch decoys placed near feeding fields or water sources increase visibility and draw birds into range. Band-tailed pigeons respond particularly well to decoy setups near their mountain roost areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Don&#8217;t overlook the pigeon overlap<\/strong>: The September 1\u201330 band-tailed pigeon season runs concurrently with the dove opener. If you&#8217;re hunting oak woodlands, pinyon-juniper zones, or mountain foothills, carry your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/hunting\/information-by-animal\/migratory-bird\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">free band-tailed pigeon permit<\/a>&nbsp;and be ready to adapt your setup for both species.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scout the Rio Grande corridor<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/animalofthings.com\/spring-bird-migration-in-new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Migratory birds concentrate along the Rio Grande and other river systems<\/a>\u2014these corridors are reliable early-season dove routes, especially after summer monsoons push birds toward water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Complete your compliance checklist early<\/strong>: Missing a HIP number, Duck Stamp, or pigeon permit on opening day is avoidable.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/animalofthings.com\/dove-hunting-season-in-new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">First-time dove hunters commonly overlook the federal Duck Stamp requirement, which carries real penalties<\/a>. Run through your full requirements at least a week before your hunt date.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pick up the right gear<\/strong>: Head to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator store<\/a>&nbsp;to gear up for New Mexico dove and pigeon season\u2014from shot shells and vests to decoys and field gear suited for hot-weather wing shooting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More Resources from Hunting Locator<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-hunting-season-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Hunting Season Guide<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 A master-calendar overview of every New Mexico hunting season in one place. Start here if you&#8217;re planning a multi-species or multi-trip year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-game-bird-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Game Bird Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Covers upland and game bird seasons beyond migratory birds\u2014quail, pheasant, and more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-waterfowl-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Waterfowl Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Ducks and geese in New Mexico&#8217;s river corridors and wetlands. If you&#8217;re already hunting dove along the Rio Grande, waterfowl season is worth planning around.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-turkey-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Turkey Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Spring and fall turkey hunting in the mountain zones, with details on tags, zones, and public land access.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-elk-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Elk Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 One of the premier big-game hunts in the West. If you&#8217;re traveling to New Mexico for dove, this guide helps you understand the draw system and plan ahead.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-deer-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Deer Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Mule deer and whitetail opportunities across the state, with license, tag, and zone information for residents and non-residents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-pronghorn-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Pronghorn Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Tag application strategies and hunt area guidance for one of New Mexico&#8217;s most recognizable open-country hunts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-bear-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Bear Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Black bear seasons across New Mexico&#8217;s mountain units, including bait and hound hunting regulations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-cougar-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Cougar Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Mountain lion seasons, quota systems, and tag requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-bighorn-sheep-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Bighorn Sheep Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 A rare and highly coveted tag. Covers the draw, unit selection, and what to expect.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-javelina-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Javelina Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Collared peccary hunting in the desert southwest, with season dates, license requirements, and access tips.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-ibex-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Ibex Hunting Season<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 One of the most unusual hunting opportunities in North America, exclusive to the Florida Mountains unit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Mexico Hunting Leases<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Browse available private land lease listings across New Mexico, searchable by region, acreage, and species.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When does New Mexico dove season open in 2026?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The New Mexico mourning and white-winged dove season is scheduled to open&nbsp;<strong>September 1, 2026<\/strong>, running through&nbsp;<strong>November 20, 2026<\/strong>.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/uh.app\/news\/hunting-seasons-in-new-mexico-202526-deer-hunting-big-game-and-small&lt;em&gt;bMryEGbHEfCf5MVcBMA6Tw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">These dates are consistent with the prior-year benchmark established in the 2025\u20132026 NMDGF season framework<\/a>, but final confirmation should come from the official&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/download\/2025-2026-new-mexico-migratory-game-bird-hunting-rules-and-info\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NMDGF Migratory Game Bird Supplement<\/a>&nbsp;released each summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the daily bag limit for dove in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The daily bag limit for 2026 is&nbsp;<strong>15 doves combined<\/strong>\u2014mourning dove and white-winged dove together count toward a single 15-bird limit, not 15 of each species.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need a permit for band-tailed pigeon hunting in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/hunting\/information-by-animal\/migratory-bird\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">All band-tailed pigeon hunters must possess a free band-tailed pigeon permit, available online at wildlife.dgf.nm.gov, by phone at 1-888-248-6866, or at NMDGF offices and authorized license vendors<\/a>. The permit is free, but it is not optional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is HIP certification and do I need it to hunt dove in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes\u2014HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification is&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.srca.nm.gov\/nmac\/nmregister\/xxxiv\/19.31.6.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mandatory for all migratory bird hunters in New Mexico<\/a>, resident and non-resident alike. Log into your NMDGF account online, call&nbsp;<strong>1-888-248-6866<\/strong>, or complete it when purchasing your license from an authorized vendor. The process takes a few minutes, and you must carry your HIP number while hunting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does a non-resident dove hunting license cost in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Non-residents need an&nbsp;<strong>Annual Game Hunting License at $90<\/strong>&nbsp;plus a&nbsp;<strong>Habitat Management &amp; Access Validation (HMAV) at $4<\/strong>. Add a&nbsp;<strong>$10 Habitat Stamp<\/strong>&nbsp;if hunting on USFS or BLM lands. You&#8217;ll also need a federal Duck Stamp (age 16+), HIP certification, and a free band-tailed pigeon permit if targeting pigeons. Residents pay $25 for the Annual Game Hunting License; HMAV and Habitat Stamp costs are the same for both residency statuses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where can I find private land to hunt dove in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting Locator&#8217;s New Mexico lease listings<\/a>&nbsp;connect you directly with landowners who are open to leasing or selling their land for hunting access. Browse by region and acreage to find parcels that match your dove hunting priorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I combine a dove hunt with a band-tailed pigeon hunt in the same trip?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, and September is the window to do it. Both seasons open September 1, 2026, giving you the full month to target both species.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wildlife.dgf.nm.gov\/hunting\/information-by-animal\/migratory-bird\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The band-tailed pigeon season closes September 30<\/a>, making a September trip your only opportunity for pigeon. Secure your free pigeon permit before you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Notes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>New Mexico&#8217;s 2026 dove and pigeon season offers mourning dove, white-winged dove, and band-tailed pigeon across the state&#8217;s&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/animalofthings.com\/spring-bird-migration-in-new-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">dual-flyway geography<\/a>, with the season opening September 1. Getting your compliance stack in order\u2014Annual Game Hunting License, HMAV, HIP, Duck Stamp, and pigeon permit if needed\u2014before you travel is the straightforward part. Land access takes more lead time.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/new-mexico\/\">Browse available New Mexico hunting leases on Hunting Locator<\/a>&nbsp;to find private parcels before the best spots are committed for the season.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This guide covers season dates, bag limits, license costs, and land access for mourning dove, white-winged dove, and band-tailed pigeon in New Mexico. All regulatory data comes from the&nbsp;New Mexico Department of Game &amp; Fish (NMDGF). Final 2026-specific dates should be confirmed in the official&nbsp;Migratory Game Bird Supplement, released each summer. Here&#8217;s what this guide &#8230; <a title=\"New Mexico Migratory Bird Season Guide for 2026: Dove &amp; Pigeon Dates, Limits, Licenses &amp; Where to Hunt\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/new-mexico-migratory-bird-hunting\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about New Mexico Migratory Bird Season Guide for 2026: Dove &amp; Pigeon Dates, Limits, Licenses &amp; Where to Hunt\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":6860,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[23,68,10,228,16],"class_list":["post-6854","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hunting-seasons","tag-dove-hunting","tag-hunting","tag-hunting-seasons","tag-pigeon-hunting","tag-season-dates"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6854","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6854"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6854\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6865,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6854\/revisions\/6865"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6860"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6854"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6854"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6854"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}