Several small game hunting seasons are opening this weekend in Iowa. Rabbit and squirrel season opened Saturday, Aug. 31, and according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), both populations appear to be trending upward. Last year, more than 123,000 cottontail rabbits and 81,000 squirrels were harvested by hunters. Rabbit season ends on Feb. 28, 2020 with a daily limit of 10 rabbits and possession limit of 20. Squirrel season closes Jan. 31, 2020 and has a daily bag limit of six and possession limit of 12. Iowa’s dove season opens today (Sunday), Sept. 1. DNR officials expect that a larger number of hunters than usual will be out in the fields. With so many hunters out, Upland Wildlife Research Biologist, Todd Bogenschutz, says, “Hunters should maintain good spacing, stay in the shooting lanes and, most importantly, practice common courtesy.” Dove season closes on Nov. 29 with a daily bag limit of 15 and possession limit of 20. The 16-day statewide teal-only hunting season also begins Sunday and is considered a bonus season that does not count against the number of days available for the regular duck season. Waterfowl hunters are required to purchase an Iowa migratory game bird fee and federal duck stamp, in addition to possessing a valid Iowa hunting license and habitat fee. Teal daily bag limit is set at six with a possession limit of 18. Links with more information on Iowa’s hunting regulations and public areas can be found included with this story on our website
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https://www.iowadnr.gov/Hunting
