Expert: Julia Booth - 8/26/2010

Question
How difficult/is it possible to obtain a wildlife license for the keeping of one game bird? Specifically, a Mourning Dove? Only as a pet, no other uses.

Thanks!

Answer
As far as I know, unless you are a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, according to the Migratory Bird Act of 1918, it is not legal to keep a mourning dove as a pet in any of the fifty states.

However, I am not sure about the laws in Canada, which are broken down by provence.

But there are many other species of doves and domestic birds that you can keep, some of which might even be available at your local pet store. Although I have been told it is better to acquire one through a breeder.

Ironically enough, I recall reading that about forty out of fifty American states actually permit mourning doves to be hunted for game purposes. And you'd need a license to do that. The remaining states have laws prohibiting people from hunting them. Those numbers are a bit old though. So they might be a little off.

This is the most helpful dove raising site I have come across:

http://www.diamonddove.info

This one might also be of use to you:

http://www.wild-bird-watching.com/raising-doves.html

Let me know if you need more information,

Julia