It’s open season…
… on doves that is. If there is anything I enjoy as much as photography, it’s conservation and everything outdoors.
September marks the beginning of dove season. This past weekend I spent some time at Marias Temps Clair (French for fair weather marsh) watching dove hunters pack the sunflower fields waiting for those quick flighted birds to pass by.
MTC is one of many conservation areas established by the state of Missouri where hunters, wildlife, and outdoor enthusiasts reap the benefits of a 1/8 cent conservation sales tax established by the state in 1976.
On Saturday I sat nestled among the fading sunflowers and yellow punctureweed to capture some of the action. Two hunters whom I met, Dan and Wayne, kindly let me share their space and record their hunt.
Pop – pop, pop, pop – pop were the sounds heard as doves flew by. Unfortunately most were flying in at the other end of the field where hunters were stationed. Still, Dan and Wayne bagged a few during my time with them. 
Asked about their experience in hunting this area, both were quick to share some pointers. Many hunters, according to Dan, use this opportunity as a “tune up,” for duck season which happens latter in the Fall. When hunters fill an area such as MTC, hunter safety and etiquette are extremely important. Stationed 15-30 yards apart hunters should stay within their shooting zone. This is usually at a 45 degree angle to your left and right and “no lower than 45 degrees above the horizon,” according to the MDC website. However, a few times we were peppered with falling shot as hunters down field fired at a 90 degree angle. 
As for Dan and Wayne, whether it’s signaling before entering the field to bag their quarry or picking up spent shells – including those left behind by others – these two guys are doing it the right way. This makes hunting safe and enjoyable for all.
_____________
The air was much cooler on Labor Day, so I decided to get up early and head back to MTC. It was even more crowded than Saturday’s venture. With winds gusting from 15-25 miles per hour, hunting was fairly light. Sitting along the levy for about 15-20 minutes, I knew I wasn’t going to capture much action. So, I decided to head back to the car.
Along the way I met Philip, a kind and gregarious man of sorts, who had much to share about his times afield. I asked him if I could take his photo and he obliged. We stood there and chatted for about 15-20 minutes while both of us shared stories from our pasts. 
Sensing he was a patient man, Philip carefully canvassed the area looking for the perfect spot to set up while we talked. Stretching out his arm he said, “I think I’ll set up over there by that point. I come out here quite a bit and scout before the season opens so, I know the birds flight patterns.” Having bagged his limit opening day, somehow I don’t think he will have to labor too hard this day.
For more information on the outdoors in Missouri go to the Conservation website at http://mdc.mo.gov/
