California Quail and Chukar Hunting Season Kicks Off with High Hopes
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, hunting enthusiasts in California have reason to be excited. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has announced promising forecasts for this year’s hunting season, particularly regarding quail and chukar populations.
“Get your boots and bird dogs ready,” CDFW encourages hunters, signaling that it’s time to hit the field.
California is home to three native species of quail: the mountain quail, California quail, and Gambel’s quail. This diversity means that no matter where you are in the state, there’s a good chance you can find a quail hunting spot close to home.
Additionally, California boasts populations of chukar partridge, a bird originally from the steppe regions of Asia and the Middle East. Chukars were introduced to California in the 1930s and have thrived in environments reminiscent of their native habitats, particularly the rugged terrains of the Modoc Plateau extending down to the Mojave Desert and Death Valley.
Rainfall plays a crucial role in the health of quail and chukar populations. It not only nourishes the insect populations essential for chick survival but also promotes the growth of key plants such as lupine, clover, chickweed, filaree, and fiddleneck—staples in the diets of these birds. Although the winter of 2024-25 was drier than usual, it followed two wet winters, ensuring that quail and chukar likely had a strong nesting season this year.
California divides its quail hunting into three zones. For the general hunting season, Zone 1 opened for mountain quail on September 13, while Zone 2 will open for both mountain and California quail on September 27. The excitement peaks on October 18 when all quail species and chukar become available for hunting statewide, with the season continuing until January 25, 2026.
Hunters are allowed to harvest up to 10 quail per day, with no restrictions on species combinations. For chukar, the daily limit is set at six birds. The possession limit for both quail and chukar is three times the daily bag limit. To hunt these birds, hunters will need a valid California hunting license along with an Upland Game Bird Validation. Additionally, California mandates the use of non-lead ammunition when hunting quail, chukar, or any other game species.
For young hunters, there’s good news: those with a Junior Hunting License do not require an Upland Game Bird Validation. Funds generated from the sale of upland game bird validations and stamps are directed towards conservation projects, educational initiatives, and hunting outreach efforts, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the sport.
For further details on hunting seasons and regulations, don’t miss the chance to check in with CDFW.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/california-quail-chukar-hunting-season-231227980.html
