Despite early weather challenges, Texas dove hunters can look forward to a strong 2025 season.

Spring population surveys conducted by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) staff found mourning dove numbers continue to trend near historic highs. Combined with strong habitat conditions across much of the state, hunters should expect solid opportunities when the 2025 dove season opens Sept. 1.

Estimates place the statewide mourning dove population at 35.9 million birds, a 5 percent increase from 2024 and 28 percent above the long-term average. White-winged dove numbers dipped slightly from last year’s record but remain strong at an estimated 11.7 million, the third highest estimate on record.

“Heavy wind and rain brought on by storms that moved across parts of the state this spring li

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