FOREWORD 



The Fish and Wildhfe Service has long urged delay in the opening 

 of the hunting season on the mourning dove until October 1 or 

 even later in the Southern States east of the Mississippi River. 

 Because the hunters, lacking knowledge of the real need for delayed 

 shooting, failed to support this stand, late September hunting has 

 been permitted. Administrative agencies unfortunately cannot 

 conduct management strictly on the basis of the needs of the 

 creatures involved, but have in addition the problem of managing 

 the hunters— just as important and often more difficult than manag- 

 ing the birds. Without public support the soundest restrictions 

 are likely to fail, 'it is hopied that this leaflet will contribute to a 

 better public understanding — the most pressing need in present 

 mourning dove management. 



Albert M. Day, Assistant Director, 



Fish and Wildlife Service. 



