8 minute read
California Outdoors Q&A
Eurasian collared dove. Shutterstock
How Do I Get Better At Identifying Doves In Flight?
Eurasian Collared Doves
Q: I am aware that there is a yearround open season on Eurasian collared doves and no limit. Can I hunt them in the middle of summer? How am I supposed to tell the diff erence between all the doves in fl ight?
A: Let’s start with the fi rst question! Yes, you can hunt Eurasian collared doves all year long. And you’re right, mourning doves, white-winged doves, spotted doves, ring turtle doves and Eurasian collared doves look similar, but hunters are expected to know the diff erence. Stated more explicitly: wildlife offi cers expect you to know the diff erence! Over time, dove hunters need to develop the skills to diff erentiate between diff erent dove species on the wing. We have a dove identifi cation graphic that may help get you started. Learning more about dove species can help, too. For example, there are areas of the state where Eurasian collared doves are more prevalent (mostly in the southern half of the state).
We recommend two strategies. First, hunt with a partner who has a signifi cant amount of experience in telling the diff erence between each type of dove in fl ight. As you see doves while hunting, ask the experienced hunter to explain what characteristics they are looking at to differentiate the birds from one another. Hunters will look at markings such as the black band across the back of the Eurasian collared dove’s neck. They also pay attention to fl ight patterns and listen to diff erent sounds generated by the doves’ wings. Second, when you begin hunting doves, we suggest hunting during the mourning dove and whitewinged dove season. That way if you make a mistake, you’ll have a reduced chance of inadvertently violating the law. For example, if you hunt dove on Sept. 1, the most popular dove hunting day of the year, you will have some room for error.
Bird identifi cation is a skill in and of itself. Duck hunters are faced with the same requirements yet have many more species to diff erentiate from. Many duck hunters are known to visit popular waterfowl migratory areas to watch birds even a er the season is over for the purpose of improving their identifi cation and calling skills. There’s no reason why dove hunters can’t do the same. With a decent pair of binoculars and an attentive ear, you can more quickly learn the subtle differences between dove species and gain a better understanding of their behaviors. Finally, remember that Eurasian collared dove are a game species, and hunters must possess both a license and an upland game bird validation.
Steelhead Report Cards
Q: The state collects data from steelhead report cards. I would like to see this data. Is it ever released or summarized for public viewing?
A: Some data collected from steelhead report cards is summarized and updated on our website: wildlife. ca.gov/Conservation/Inland-Fisheries/ Steelhead-Report-Card. The website also includes the last legislative report which
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE →
COMPLETE GUNSMITHING MASTER AUTHORIZED DEALER MADE IN USAQUALITY FIREARMS FOR 82 YEARS FOR Decoy & Water Fowl Supplies Full Line of Remington Rifl es
Custom Barrel & Stock Making For Ultimate Accuracy Try One of our Match Grade Barrels Crab Pots & Gear
Kimber 4 Remington 4 Ruger
Springfi eld • Glock • Winchester • Browning • Cooper Firearms Optics: Swarovski • Leopold • Leica • Burris • Bushnell Fishing Tackle
Rods & Reels Waders
Piranta Knives
Turkey Calls
& Accessories Bows Built By The Pros
UP TO 350 FPS
32
Ridge Reaper
Optifade Vertix
UP TO 343 FPS Traverse
UP TO 338 FPS New Models Arriving Daily
MADE IN USA
TX-5
UP TO 345 FPS
Fastest • Smoothest & Quietest • Great Selection in Stock PSE • NAP • Mathews • Goldtip • Beman • Easton • Spothogg • Cobra Trophy Taker • Scott • Tru Ball • Camo Clothing • Scent Shield Clothing GRUNDMAN'S SPORTING GOODS
75 Wildwood Ave. Rio Dell 707-764-5744
Our 3rd Generation Since 1937 OPEN: Mon - Fri 9-6 Sat 9-5
METAL ROOFING HEADQUARTERS
IN STOCK: BARE METAL ROOFING 2ft and 3ft wide 8ft, 10ft, and 12ft Lengths Knowledgeable Staff Many Colors Custom Lengths
1# POOL SHOCK
$45.48 case of 12
Free Pool Water Test We Carry Nets, Poles, Brushes, Equipment
3950 JACOBS AVE (HWY 101) EUREKA • 443-4851 STORE HOURS 11 - 5 TUES.- SAT. • CLOSED SUN.& MON CARLJOHNSONCO.COM
California Outdoors Q&A
← CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
summarizes data from 2007 through 2014. A legislative report summarizing data from 2015-2019, which includes total report cards sold, amount of revenue accrued and spent, angling data, and benefits of the report card program has been submitted for review and will be made available once approved. Requests for steelhead report card data can also be submitted directly to the Program Coordinator at SHcard@wildlife.ca.gov or through a formal request for public records.
Taking Mollusks by Hand
Q: When limpets are taken from shore can gloves be used to protect your hands?
A: Yes, gloves can be used to take any number of intertidal invertebrates, including limpets. Limpets are a type of saltwater mollusk. California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Section 29.10(a) permits the take of saltwater mollusks by hand. Nothing in the regulations prohibits gloving the hands. If you think about harvesting California Spiny Lobsters by hand while on SCUBA for example, just try to take a spiny lobster without wearing gloves! Ouch!
Fishing License
Q: I have a fishing license but my friend doesn’t. When I catch a fish, can my friend help me by netting the fish while I hold the rod?
A: No. The California Fish and Game Code defines take in section 86. It states: “Take” means hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill, or attempt to hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill. If your friend is assisting you with the “catching” of fish, by the letter of the law, he or she would need a license too. F
If you have a question you would like to see answered in the California Outdoors Q and A column, email it to CalOutdoors@wildlife.ca.gov
Make a Difference
IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Call Sharon at (707) 442-4500 ext. 205
California MENTOR is seeking families with an available bedroom in their home to share with an adult with special needs. Receive ongoing support and a generous, monthly payment. MentorsWanted.com
THE CITY OF
POLICE DEPARTMENT
POLICE CADET (POLICE ACADEMY STUDENT)
$2,990- $3,634 Monthly Are you interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement?
The City of Eureka is seeking motivated and disciplined individuals to assume the role of Police Cadet and undergo training to become a Police Officer with the Eureka Police Department. If selected for this position, candidates will be sponsored to attend and complete the local POST approved Basic Police Academy. Cadets who successfully complete the academy will be promoted to Police Officer with EPD, provided that all necessary requirements are met at that time. For a complete job description and to apply, please visit our website at www.ci.eureka.ca.gov. EOE Final filing date Friday, August 6th, 2021
Seeking AmeriCorps Members
Support families in need by providing case management and resources/ referrals. The term is 11.5 months starting mid-August. Benefits include a monthly living allowance, education award, professional training and experience. Must be 21 years old, have some relevant experience, CA driver’s license, vehicle and insurance. To apply and for questions call Erika at 707 269-2047 or email at eavendano@rcaa.org.
1930 MODEL A COUP. Rebuilt motor. New fenders and running boards. $9500 or trade for a Mustang. 707-923-4071.
THESE ADS RUN FOR FREE. Find out how at thetrader707.com/free-classified-ads.
THE CITY OF
BUILDING INSPECTOR I/II
$3,578 -$4,781 Monthly BUILDING DIVISION The City of Eureka Building Division is seeking a qualified individual for the position of Building Inspector. Some duties include:
Performing field inspections of a variety of types of properties; performing plan checking; conferring with various staff and outside agencies for safely, zoning and other code interpretations; reviewing and issuing building permits; investigating complaints regarding existing buildings or new construction. The ideal candidate will have the equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade supplemented by college-level coursework in construction technology, building inspection or a related field. For a complete job description and to apply, please visit our website at www.ci.eureka.ca.gov. EOE Final filing date 5 pm, Monday, August 9th, 2021
ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER
We seek an experienced leader, supervisor and professional administrator to oversee the Eureka Region’s administrative services and corporate administrative policies and procedures across SHN’s seven offices in California and Oregon. The ideal applicant will be a seasoned technical writer, and possess strong organizational, analytical, supervisory, and interpersonal skills. SHN has a strong compensation package including health insurance, matching retirement plan and a flexible work arrangement. See the ad and how to apply: www.shn-engr.com/careers/currently-open-positions SHN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer!
Redwood Community Action Agency is hiring!
Build to edge of the document Margins are just a safe area ADULT & FAMILY SERVICES
