Thanksgiving and Day After Office Closures -

Colorado Parks and Wildlife offices, including park visitor centers, will be closed on Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29. No park pass is required to enter any state park on Friday November 29th for Fresh Air Friday

Small Game

Small game, migratory birds, and waterfowl are staple hunts for many sportspeople and their families, and good hunts for new hunters looking to gain experience before hunting big game.
Small game hunters preparing for hunting in a field.

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Three hunters look over their harvested birds.

Three hunters look over their harvested birds.

HUNTING SMALL GAME, MIGRATORY BIRDS, AND WATERFOWL

What's New

The 2024 Colorado Small Game and Waterfowl Brochure is available. Changes include:  Harvest Information Program (HIP) registration is only available through CPW’s licensing system at cpwshop.com or by calling an automated phone service at 1-855-521-3050. Electronic federal duck stamps prices increased by $2. A $0 permit is required to hunt sandhill cranes and a city-issued permit is required in City of Ft. Collins Natural Areas. 

Be sure to read the "What's New" pages in the Small Game and Waterfowl, Recreational Lands, Walk-in Atlas and Late Cropland Walk-in Atlas brochures to see a full list of changes on tap for the upcoming seasons.

hunters

2024-25 Eastern Plains Pheasant & Quail Forecast

Pheasant populations across the eastern plains of Colorado will range from slightly better to significantly better than 2023, depending on local conditions.  Generally across the core range in Northeast Colorado, we are now two nesting seasons away from the lasting negative effects of the severe drought of 2020-23 and the severe winter of 2022-23, which severely decreased populations of pheasants.  Further, weather conditions in 2024, being fairly warm and dry in May and June, probably helped the hatch and survival of pheasant chicks, which can be hampered by wet, cool conditions right after nests hatch.   

Purchase a License

Small game licenses can be purchased online at CPWShop.com, by phone at 1-800-244-5613 and at sales agents around the state. Small game and furbearer licenses, the furbearer harvest permit, and the Colorado Waterfowl Stamps and Habitat Stamps are valid March 1 through March 31 of the following year (13 months).

    Small Game Species You Can Hunt

    • Abert's Squirrel
    • Common Snapping Turtle
    • Cottontail Rabbit
    • Snowshoe Hare
    • White-tailed Jackrabbit
    • Black-tailed Jackrabbit
    • Marmot
    • White-tailed Prairie Dog
    • Black-tailed Prairie Dog
    • Gunnison's Prairie Dog
    • Prairie Rattlesnake
    • Fox Squirrel
    • Pine Squirrel
    • Wyoming (Richardson's) Ground Squirrel
    • Coyote
    • Dusky Grouse
    • Mountain Sharp-tailed Grouse
    • Greater Sage-grouse
    • White-tailed Ptarmigan
    • Pheasant
    • Northern Bobwhite Quail
    • Scaled Quail
    • Gambel's Quail
    • Chukar Partridge

    Ways to Hunt Small Game

      License Requirements

      • Proper Identification

        Resident and nonresident customers must show valid photo identification to purchase a license. Valid identification includes: drivers license, photo identification card, U.S. passport, foreign drivers license or passport, 1551 resident alien/permanent resident card (green card), military ID, Employment Authorization Card (EAD), Colorado Department of Corrections or Federal Bureau of Prison ID, Tribal Identification Card, Certificate of Naturalization, or photo identification exemption forms approved by CPW. A Social Security number is also required for hunters age 12 and older.

      • Proof of Residency

        Colorado resident hunters must provide a Colorado driver's license or Colorado identification card to purchase a resident-only license.

      • Hunter Education

        All hunters  born on or after January 1, 1949 must have proof of hunter education to purchase a small game license.

      • Small Game License

        To hunt small game, migratory birds, and waterfowl in Colorado you need a small game license, youth small game license, small game and fishing combination license, or a one-day small game license. A license is not required to hunt Eurasian Collared-doves.

      • Habitat Stamp

        All hunters must purchase a habitat stamp. If you have a 2021 Habitat Stamp, you can hunt the 2021 light goose conservation order season through March 1, 2022. You will then need to purchase a 2022 Habitat Stamp for the rest of the 2021 season, April 1 - 30, 2022.

      • Register with the Harvest Information Program (HIP)

        Hunters who wish to hunt small game, coyote and migratory birds must sign up with the Harvest Information Program each year. 

      • Federal Migratory Bird Stamp

        To hunt waterfowl, hunters 16 years or older must have a federal migratory bird stamp (also called the duck stamp). The federal stamp is available after July 1 online, by phone and at select post offices. It is also available at CPW offices and sales agents. A federal stamp is not required to take light geese during the conservation order season.

      • Colorado Waterfowl Stamp

        To hunt waterfowl, hunters 16 years or older must have a Colorado waterfowl stamp. The state stamp is printed on your hunting license and validated by signing your name in ink on the license.

      • Furbearer License or Permit

        To hunt furbearers, hunters need either a furbearer license or small game license AND furbearer harvest permit.

      Hunt Small Game

      Hunters can purchase a small game l​icense. This license will allow hunters to harvest small game including coyote, migatory birds, and waterfowl only. 

      Common Snapping Turtles

      To hunt common snapping turtles you need a small game or fishing license.

      Hunt Furbearers

      Hunters who only want to hunt furbearers (includes coyote) and not the rest of small game, migratory birds or waterfowl, can purchase the new annual furbearer license. Learn more about hunting furbearers.

      Hunt Small Game and Furbearers

      Hunters can purchase a small game license and the new annual furbearer harvest permit. This will allow hunters to hunt all small game, migratory birds, and furbearer species. Learn more about hunting furbearers.

      Small Game Single Day Licenses

      Hunters who primarily want to hunt furbearers may want to purchase a one-day small game hunting license. If hunters decide to extend their small game hunting for another day, additional-day small game licenses are also available.

      Resident Youth Small Game and Furbearers Combo License

      Colorado resident youth (under 18) can purchase a small game and furbearers combo license.

      Hunt Small Game and Fish

      Hunters who are Colorado residents can purchase a small game and fishing combo license. This will allow hunters to hunt all small game, migratory birds and go fishing.

      Senior Small Game Hunting and Fishing Combo

      Colorado resident seniors (65 or older) can purchase an annual small game hunting and fishing combo license, or apply for a lifetime small game and fishing combo license.

      Veterans and First Responders Small Game Hunting and Fishing Combo

      Colorado resident military veterans and first responders with disabilities can apply for a free lifetime small game and fishing combo license.

      Small Game Single Day Licenses

      Anglers who may also want to hunt small game may want to purchase a one-day small game hunting license. If anglers decide to extend their small game hunting for another day, additional-day small game licenses are also available.

      Hunt Big Game and Small Game

      Small Game Plus Primary and Secondary Draw

      Hunters who are planning to apply for a limited big game license will need a qualifying license to apply for either draw. A small game license counts as a qualifying license for the primary draw and secondary draw.

      Small Game Plus Over-the-Counter

      Hunters who want to hunt small game and big game, but don't want to apply for the draws can purchase a small game license and then purchase an over-the-counter (OTC) big game license when OTC licenses go on sale in August.

      Small Game Single Day Licenses

      Big game hunters who may also want to hunt small game may want to purchase a one-day small game hunting license. If anglers decide to extend their small game hunting for another day, additional-day small game licenses are also available.

      Hunt Invasive Birds

      Eurasian Collared-Doves, European Starlings and House (English) Sparrows are considered invasive species in Colorado. Because of this designation, these species may be hunted year-round.

      No license or Habitat Stamp is required to hunt invasive species; however, hunters must have and carry with them a hunter education card. Hunters may harvest any number of each of these species and by any method of take approved for big- or small-game hunting. These species may be taken at night with the use of artificial light and night vision equipment.

      Commercial hunting of invasive species is prohibited, as is receiving or attempting to receive compensation by hunting these species. 

      Eurasian collared-doves must remain fully feathered while in the field or during transport, except when counted as part of the mourning or white-winged dove bag and possession limit during the dove season that runs from Sept. 1–Nov. 29.

      Season Dates & Deadlines

      Abert's Squirrel

      Daily Bag Limit 2, Possession Limit: 4

      November 15, 2024

      January 15, 2025

      See Brochure

      Common Snapping Turtle

      Bag and possession limit: Unlimited

      April 01, 2025

      October 31, 2025

      See Brochure

      Cottontail Rabbit, Snowshoe Hare, White-tailed Jackrabbit, Black-tailed Jackrabbit

      Daily Bag Limit: 10 of each species, Possession Limit: 20 of each species

      October 01, 2024

      February 28, 2025

      See Brochure

      Marmot

      Daily Bag Limit: 2, Possession Limit: 4

      August 10, 2025

      October 15, 2025

      See Brochure

      Prairie Dog,: White-tailed, Black-tailed, Gunnison's

      Bag and possession limit: Unlimited; Private Land Season: year-round

      June 15, 2025

      February 28, 2025

      See Brochure

      Prairie Rattlesnake

      Daily Bag Limit: 3, Possession Limit: 6

      June 15, 2025

      August 15, 2025

      See Brochure

      Fox Squirrel, Pine Squirrel

      Daily Bag Limit: 5 of each species, Possession Limit: 10 of each species

      October 01, 2024

      February 28, 2025

      See Brochure

      Wyoming (Richardson's) Ground Squirrel

      Year-round season. Unlimited bag and possession limit.

      See Brochure

      Coyote

      Year-round Season. Bag and possession Limit: Unlimited; NOTE: While coyote are considered furbearers, you do NOT need a furbearer harvest permit to hunt this species. You may hunt coyote with a furbearer license, a small-game license or an unfilled big-game license for the same season and unit. See "license requirements to hunt coyote" in the brochure. Coyote hunters must sign up with HIP EACH YEAR before their license is valid. See the Harvest Information Program.

      See Brochure

      Band-tailed Pigeon

      Area: Statewide; Daily Bag Limit: 2, Possession Limit: 6; Note: A band-tailed pigeon permit ($5) is required in addition to the small game license. See the brochure.

      September 01, 2024

      September 01, 2024

      See Brochure

      Chukar Partridge

      Area: Statewide; Daily Bag Limit: 4, Possession Limit: 12

      September 01, 2024

      November 30, 2024

      See Brochure

      Crow

      Area: Statewide; Bag and possession limit: Unlimited; Note: Recorded or electronically amplified calls may be used during this season.

      November 01, 2024

      February 28, 2025

      See Brochure

      Dove: Mourning, White-winged

      Area: Statewide; Daily Bag Limit: 15 singly or in aggregate, Possession Limit: 45 singly or in aggregate; Within brochure, see “Bird Species Identification" for transit requirements. See “Eurasian Collared” for influence on bag limits.

      September 01, 2024

      November 29, 2024

      See Brochure

      Dove: Eurasian Collared

      Season: Year-round, Area: Statewide; Bag and Possession limit: Unlimited; NOTE: Eurasians must be fully feathered while in the field and during transport, unless counted as part of the mourning and/or white winged dove bag limits. A license is not required, as these are considered an invasive species. See “Hunting Invasive Birds.” See brochure.

      January 01, 2024

      December 31, 2024

      See Brochure

      European Starling, House (English) Sparrow

      Season :Year-round, Area: Statewide; Bag and possession limit: Unlimited; NOTE: A license is not required, as these are considered an invasive species. See “Hunting Invasive Birds” in brochure.

      January 01, 2024

      December 31, 2024

      See Brochure

      Greater Prairie-chicken

      AREA: Only GMUs 93, 97, 98, 100, 101, 102 103 and 109, and all of Morgan Co., and those portions E of Colo. 71, and S of Colo. 14 and Hwy. 138. Daily Bag Limit: 2 per day, Possession Limit: 6 per year

      October 01, 2024

      January 31, 2025

      See Brochure

      Dusky Grouse (blue)

      Area: West of I-25; Daily Bag Limit: 3, Possession Limit: 9

      September 01, 2024

      November 24, 2024

      See Brochure

      Greater Sage Grouse Season 1

      Area: GMUs 3, 11, 13, 18 except east of Colo. 125 in Grand Co., 27, 28 except north and east of Grand CR 50 (Church Park Rd.) and U.S. 40, 37, 181, 201, 211, 301 and 441. Note that GMUs 2, 4 and 5, and 10 are NOT open for greater sage-grouse hunting.. Daily Bag Limit: 2, Possession Limit: 4

      September 14, 2024

      September 20, 2024

      See Brochure

      Greater Sage Grouse Season 2

      Area: Only GMUs 6, 16, 17, 161 and 171 (North Park). Daily Bag Limit: 2, Possession Limit: 2

      September 14, 2024

      September 15, 2024

      See Brochure

      Mountain Sharp-tailed Grouse

      Area: Only GMUs 4, 5, 12, 13, 14, 131, 211, 214 and 441. Daily Bag Limit: 2, Possession Limit: 4

      September 01, 2024

      September 15, 2024

      See Brochure

      Pheasant Season 1

      Area: East of I-25. Daily Bag Limit: 3 cocks, Possession Limit: 9 cocks

      November 09, 2024

      January 31, 2025

      See Brochure

      Pheasant Season 2

      Area: West of I-25. Daily Bag Limit: 3 cocks, Possession Limit: 9 cocks

      November 09, 2024

      January 05, 2025

      See Brochure

      Quail: Northern Bobwhite, Scaled Gambel's Season 1

      Area: East of I-25 and south of I-70 from I-25 to Byers and Hwy. 36 from Byers to Kansas, and the parts of the following counties that are west of I-25: Pueblo, Fremont, Huerfano, El Paso and Las Animas counties. Daily Bag Limit: 8 of each species, 24 of each species

      November 09, 2024

      January 31, 2025

      See Brochure

      Quail: Northern Bobwhite, Scaled Gambel's Season 2

      Area: East of I-25 and north of I-70 from I-25 east to Byers and Hwy. 36 from Byers to Kansas. Daily Bag Limit: 8 of each species, 24 of each species

      November 09, 2024

      January 05, 2025

      See Brochure

      Quail: Northern Bobwhite, Scaled Gambel's Season 3

      Area: West of I-25 except those areas west of I-25 in Pueblo, Fremont, Huerfano, El Paso and Las Animas counties.. Daily Bag Limit: 8 of each species, 24 of each species

      November 09, 2024

      January 05, 2025

      See Brochure

      Rail: Sora, Virginia

      Area: Statewide; Daily Bag Limit: 25 singly or in aggregate; Possession Limit: 75 singly or in aggregate

      September 01, 2024

      November 09, 2024

      See Brochure

      Sandhill Crane

      Area: East of the Continental Divide except North Park (Jackson Co.) and San Luis Valley. Daily Bag Limit: 3; Possession Limit: 9; NOTE: Permit required through the Harvest Information Program. See brochure.

      October 05, 2024

      December 01, 2024

      See Brochure

      White-tailed Ptarmigan Season 1

      Area: Statewide, except GMUs 44, 45, 53, 54, 66, 67, 68, 70, 71, 74−81, 444 and 751. Daily Bag Limit: 3, Possession Limit: 6

      September 14, 2024

      October 06, 2024

      See Brochure

      White-tailed Ptarmigan Season 2

      Area: ONLY GMUs 44, 45, 53, 54, 66, 67, 68, 70, 71, 74−81, 444 and 751. Daily Bag Limit: 3, Possession Limit: 6

      September 14, 2024

      November 24, 2024

      See Brochure

      Wilson's Snipe

      Area: Statewide; Daily Bag Limit: 8; Possession Limit: 24

      September 01, 2024

      December 16, 2024

      See Brochure

      Migratory Bird Species You Can Hunt

      • Band-tailed Pigeon
      • Crow
      • Mourning Dove
      • White-winged Dove
      • European Starling
      • House (English) Sparrow
      • Sora Rail
      • Virginia Rail
      • Sandhill Crane
      • Wilson's Snipe
      • American Coot

      Ways to Hunt Small Game

        License Requirements

        • Proper Identification

          Resident and nonresident customers must show valid photo identification to purchase a license. Valid identification includes: drivers license, photo identification card, U.S. passport, foreign drivers license or passport, 1551 resident alien/permanent resident card (green card), military ID, Employment Authorization Card (EAD), Colorado Department of Corrections or Federal Bureau of Prison ID, Tribal Identification Card, Certificate of Naturalization, or photo identification exemption forms approved by CPW. A Social Security number is also required for hunters age 12 and older.

        • Proof of Residency

          Colorado resident hunters must provide a Colorado driver's license or Colorado identification card to purchase a resident-only license.

        • Hunter Education

          All hunters  born on or after January 1, 1949 must have proof of hunter education to purchase a small game license.

        • Small Game License

          To hunt small game, migratory birds, and waterfowl in Colorado you need a small game license, youth small game license, small game and fishing combination license, or a one-day small game license. A license is not required to hunt Eurasian Collared-doves.

        • Habitat Stamp

          All hunters must purchase a habitat stamp. If you have a 2021 Habitat Stamp, you can hunt the 2021 light goose conservation order season through March 1, 2022. You will then need to purchase a 2022 Habitat Stamp for the rest of the 2021 season, April 1 - 30, 2022.

        • Register with the Harvest Information Program (HIP)

          Hunters who wish to hunt small game, coyote and migratory birds must sign up with the Harvest Information Program each year.

        • Federal Migratory Bird Stamp

          To hunt waterfowl, hunters 16 years or older must have a federal migratory bird stamp (also called the duck stamp). The federal stamp is available after July 1 online, by phone and at select post offices. It is also available at CPW offices and sales agents. A federal stamp is not required to take light geese during the conservation order season.

        • Colorado Waterfowl Stamp

          To hunt waterfowl, hunters 16 years or older must have a Colorado waterfowl stamp. The state stamp is printed on your hunting license and validated by signing your name in ink on the license.

        • Furbearer License or Permit

          To hunt furbearers, hunters need either a furbearer license or small game license AND furbearer harvest permit.

        Hunt Migratory Birds

        Hunters can purchase a small game l​icense. This license will allow hunters to harvest small game including coyote, migatory birds, and waterfowl only. 

        Sandhill Cranes

        A separate federal permit number, available through the Harvest Information Program (HIP) through CPWShop.com is required.

        Band-tailed Pigeons

        A $5 permit is required in addition to the small-game license to hunt band-tailed pigeons. The permit is available online, by phone, and at CPW locations.

        Hunt Migratory Birds and Furbearers

        Hunters can purchase a small game license and the new annual furbearer harvest permit. This will allow hunters to hunt all small game, migratory birds, and furbearer species. Learn more about hunting furbearers.

        Small Game Single Day Licenses

        Hunters who primarily want to hunt furbearers may want to purchase a one-day small game hunting license to also hunt migratory birds. If hunters decide to extend their small game hunting for another day, additional-day small game licenses are also available.

        Resident Youth Small Game and Furbearers Combo License

        Colorado resident youth (under 18) can purchase a small game and furbearers combo license.

        Hunt Migratory Birds and Fish

        Hunters who are Colorado residents can purchase a small game and fishing combo license. This will allow hunters to hunt all small game, migratory birds and go fishing.

        Senior Small Game Hunting and Fishing Combo

        Colorado resident seniors (65 or older) can purchase an annual small game hunting and fishing combo license, or apply for a lifetime small game and fishing combo license.

        Veterans and First Responders Small Game Hunting and Fishing Combo

        Colorado resident military veterans and first responders with disabilities can apply for a free lifetime small game and fishing combo license.

        Small Game Single Day Licenses

        Anglers who may also want to hunt small game may want to purchase a one-day small game hunting license. If anglers decide to extend their small game hunting for another day, additional-day small game licenses are also available.

        Hunt Migratory Birds and Big Game or Turkey

        Migratory Birds Plus Primary and Secondary Draw

        Hunters who are planning to apply for a limited big game or turkey license will need a qualifying license to apply for either draw. A small game license is required to hunt migratory birds and counts as a qualifying license for the primary draw and secondary draw.

        Small Game Plus Over-the-Counter

        Hunters who want to hunt migratory birds and big game or turkey, but don't want to apply for the draws can purchase a small game license and then purchase an over-the-counter (OTC) big game license when OTC licenses go on sale in August. Spring OTC turkey licenses go on sale in early March. Fall OTC turkey licenses go on sale in early August.

        Small Game Single Day Licenses

        Big game / turkey hunters who may also want to hunt migratory birds may want to purchase a one-day small game hunting license. If hunter decide to extend their migratory bird hunting for another day, additional-day small game licenses are also available.

        Season Dates & Deadlines

        Band-tailed Pigeon

        Daily Bag Limit 2, Possession Limit: 6

        September 01, 2024

        September 14, 2024

        See Brochure

        Crow

        Unlimited bag and possession limit.

        November 01, 2023

        February 28, 2024

        See Brochure

        Eurasian Collared Dove

        Year-round season. Unlimited bag and possession limit.

        See Brochure

        European Starling, House (English) Sparrow

        Year-round season. Unlimited bag and possession limit.

        See Brochure

        Mourning Dove, White-winged Dove

        Daily Bag Limit: 15 singly or in aggregate, Possession Limit: 45 singly or in aggregate

        September 01, 2024

        November 29, 2024

        See Brochure

        Sandhill Crane

        Daily Bag Limit: 3, Possession Limit: 9

        September 30, 2023

        November 26, 2023

        See Brochure

        Sora Rail, Virginia Rail

        Daily Bag Limit: 25 singly or in aggregate, Possession Limit: 75 singly or in aggregate

        September 01, 2024

        November 09, 2024

        See Brochure

        Wilson's Snipe

        Daily Bag Limit: 8, Possession Limit: 24

        September 01, 2024

        December 16, 2024

        See Brochure.

        Hunting with Hawks and Falcons

        • Cottontail Rabbit
        • Snowshoe Hare
        • White-tailed Jackrabbit
        • Black-tailed Jackrabbit
        • Chukar Partridge
        • Band-tailed Pigeon
        • Crow
        • Mourning Dove
        • White-winged Dove
        • Duck
        • Goose
        • Coot
        • Sora Rail
        • Virginia Rail
        • Wilson's Snipe
        • European Starling
        • House (English) Sparrow
        • Eurasian Collared-dove
        • Dusky (blue) Grouse
        • Greater Sage Grouse
        • Mountain Sharp-tailed Grouse
        • Pheasant
        • Northern Bobwhite Quail
        • Scaled Quail
        • Gambel's Quail
        • Fox Squirrel
        • Pine Squirrel
        • White-tailed Ptarmigan

        Ways to Hunt Small Game

          License Requirements

          • Proper Identification

            Resident and nonresident customers must show valid photo identification to purchase a license. Valid identification includes: drivers license, photo identification card, U.S. passport, foreign drivers license or passport, 1551 resident alien/permanent resident card (green card), military ID, Employment Authorization Card (EAD), Colorado Department of Corrections or Federal Bureau of Prison ID, Tribal Identification Card, Certificate of Naturalization, or photo identification exemption forms approved by CPW. A Social Security number is also required for hunters age 12 and older.

          • Proof of Residency

            Colorado resident hunters must provide a Colorado driver's license or Colorado identification card to purchase a resident-only license.

          • Falconry License

            For residents a resident falconry license is required. Nonresidents must by either an annual nonresident falconry license from CPWShop.com, or have proof of their current and valid falconry license in their home state. A hunter education certificate is not required for residents with a three year falconry licenses or nonresidents with an annual nonresident falconry licenses.

          • Habitat Stamp

            All hunters must purchase a habitat stamp. If you have a 2021 Habitat Stamp, you can hunt the 2021 light goose conservation order season through March 1, 2022. You will then need to purchase a 2022 Habitat Stamp for the rest of the 2021 season, April 1 - 30, 2022.

          • Register with the Harvest Information Program (HIP)

            Hunters who wish to hunt small game, coyote and migratory birds must sign up with the Harvest Information Program each year. Licensed falconers are required to register with HIP before any hunting activity.

          • Federal Migratory Bird Stamp

            To hunt waterfowl, hunters 16 years or older must have a federal migratory bird stamp (also called the duck stamp). The federal stamp is available after July 1 online, by phone and at select post offices. It is also available at CPW offices and sales agents. A federal stamp is not required to take light geese during the conservation order season.

          • Colorado Waterfowl Stamp

            To hunt waterfowl, hunters 16 years or older must have a Colorado waterfowl stamp. The state stamp is printed on your hunting license and validated by signing your name in ink on the license.

          • Raptor Importation License

            A raptor importation license is required to import any raptor into Colorado. An application for raptor importation must be submitted a minimum of 7 days of proposed importation date. A current health certificate issued within 30 days of the proposed entry from the state of origin is required.

          Falconry Hunting (Hawking)

          Hunters with a falconry license do not need a separate small game license or to have a hunter education card if they are just hunting the listed species with the raptor. If the hunter wishes to hunt game with any other method of take (firearm, bow) they will need a hunter education card and the appropriate hunting license.

          • Apprentices may hunt with only one raptor at a time. 
          • Firearms are prohibited while hawking. 
          • Hawking is prohibited from a public road. 
          • Hawking on private property is illegal without permission from the owner or person in charge.

          Season Dates & Deadlines

          Band-tailed Pigeon

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          September 01, 2024

          September 14, 2024

          See Brochure

          Chukar Partridge

          Daily Bag Limit: 4, Possession Limit: 12

          September 01, 2024

          March 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Cottontail Rabbit, Snowshoe Hare, White-tailed Jackrabbit, Black-tailed Jackrabbit

          Daily Bag Limit: 10 of each species, Possession Limit: 20 of each species.

          September 01, 2024

          March 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Crow

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          November 01, 2023

          February 28, 2024

          See Brochure

          Duck and Coot Mountain/Foothills Zone

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.September 30, 2023 to November 26, 2023; December 25, 2023 to January 31, 2024.

          See Brochure

          Duck and Coot Northeast Zone

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate. October 14, 2024 to November 26, 2024; December 11, 2024 to Jan 31, 2024.

          See Brochure

          Duck and Coot Southeast Zone

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          October 28, 2024

          January 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Mourning Dove, White-winged Dove

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          September 01, 2024

          November 29, 2024

          See Brochure

          Sora Rail, Virginia Rail

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          September 01, 2024

          November 09, 2024

          See Brochure

          Duck and Coot Western Zone

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate. September 30, 2023 to October 17, 2023; November 6, 2023 to January 31, 2024.

          See Brochure

          Duck and Coot Eastern Zone

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          September 30, 2023

          January 12, 2024

          See Brochure

          Dark Goose Regular Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          October 30, 2023

          February 11, 2024

          See Brochure

          Light Goose Regular Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          February 12, 2024

          April 30, 2024

          See Brochure

          Dark Goose North Park Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          September 30, 2023

          January 12, 2024

          See Brochure

          Light Goose North Park Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          October 28, 2023

          February 11, 2024

          See Brochure

          Light Goose Conservation Order Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          February 12, 2024

          April 30, 2024

          See Brochure

          Dark Goose San Luis Valley Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate. September 30, 2023 to October 18, 2023; November 18, 2023 to February 11, 2024.

          See Brochure

          Light Goose San Luis Valley Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          October 28, 2023

          February 11, 2024

          See Brochure

          Dark Goose South Park Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          September 30, 2023

          January 12, 2024

          See Brochure

          Light Goose South park Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          October 28, 2023

          February 11, 2024

          See Brochure

          Dark Goose Early Canada Goose Season

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          September 01, 2024

          September 09, 2024

          See Brochure

          Dark Goose and Light Goose Western Zone

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate. September 30, 2023 to October 8, 2023; November 6, 2023 to January 31, 2024.

          See Brochure

          Dark Goose and Light Goose Easter Zone

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate.

          September 30, 2023

          January 03, 2024

          See Brochure

          Wilson's Snipe

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 singly or in aggregate for species with an open hunting season or special falconry season, Possession Limit: 9 singly or in aggregate

          September 01, 2024

          December 16, 2024

          See Brochure.

          European Starling, House (English) Sparrow, Eurasian Collared Dove

          Year-round season. Unlimited bag and possession limit.

          See Brochure

          Badger, Red Fox, Gray Fox, Swift Fox, Mink, Muskrat, Opossum, Pine Marten, Raccoon, Ring-tailed Cat, Striped Skunk, Western Spotted Skunk, Long-tailed Weasel, Short-tailed Weasel

          Unlimited bag and possession limits.

          November 01, 2024

          February 28, 2025

          See Brochure

          Beaver

          Unlimited bag and possession limits.

          October 01, 2024

          April 30, 2025

          See Brochure

          Bobcat

          Unlimited bag and possession limits.

          December 01, 2024

          February 28, 2025

          See Brochure

          Dusky Grouse (blue)

          Daily Bag Limit: 3, Possession Limit: 9

          September 01, 2024

          March 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Greater Sage Grouse

          Daily Bag Limit: 2, Possession Limit: 2 birds only in North Park; 4 birds in all other GMUs listed.

          September 09, 2024

          January 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Mountain Sharp-tailed Grouse

          Daily Bag Limit: 2, Possession Limit: 4

          September 01, 2024

          January 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Pheasant

          Daily Bag Limit: 3 birds, Possession Limit: 9 birds

          September 01, 2024

          March 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Northern Bobwhite Quail, Scaled Quail, Gambel's Quail

          Daily Bag Limit: 8 of each species, 24 of each species

          November 11, 2024

          January 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Fox Squirrel, Pine Squirrel

          Daily Bag Limit: 5 of each species, Possession Limit: 10 of each species

          September 01, 2024

          March 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          White-tailed Ptarmigan

          Daily Bag Limit: 3, Possession Limit: 6

          September 01, 2024

          March 31, 2025

          See Brochure

          Falconry bag and possession limits are not in addition to gun bag limits.

          Canadian geese in flight.

          Waterfowl Species You Can Hunt

          Excitement, adventure, beautiful scenery—that’s what hunting in Colorado is truly about. And there’s no better way to experience all three than waterfowl hunting. Waterfowl hunting provides the ultimate way to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the Colorado Outdoors.

          A coyote in brush.

          Furbearer Species You Can Hunt

          Hunting furbearers and small game is a time honored traditional hunt and a great starter hunt for new hunters. Furbearers include mink, pine marten, badger, fox, skunk, beaver, muskrat, weasel, bobcat, opossum, ring-tailed cat, raccoon, and coyote.

          Be in the Know

          Important Hunting Dates, Deadlines and Reminders

          January 1

          12:01am MST

          Coyote Season Open Year-round

          June 15

          12:01am MDT

          Prairie Dog: White-tailed, Black-tailed, Gunnison’s - Public Land Seasons Open

          June 15

          12:01am MDT

          Prairie Rattlesnake Season Opens

          August 10

          12:01am MDT

          Marmot Season Opens

          Hunting License Fees

          Annual Habitat Stamp

          Resident and Nonresident

          $12.15

          Colorado Waterfowl Stamp

          Resident and Nonresident

          $12.15

          Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp (Duck Stamp)

          Resident and Nonresident

          $33.00

          Annual Small Game

          Resident

          $35.76

          Annual Small Game

          Nonresident

          $98.92

          Small Game One Day

          Resident

          $16.33

          Small Game One Day

          Nonresident

          $19.97

          Small Game Additional-Day

          Resident and Nonresident

          $7.82

          Youth Small Game and Furbearer

          Resident and Nonresident Youth (under 18 only)

          $1.46

          Small Game and Fishing Combo

          Resident

          $60.05

          Furbearer License Only

          Resident

          $35.76

          Furbearer License Only

          Nonresident

          $98.92

          Furbearer Harvest Permit

          Resident and Nonresident

          $10.00

          Senior Small Game and Fishing Combo

          Resident (aged 65 and older)

          $35.32

          Senior Annual Small Game for Lifetime Fishing License Holders

          Resident

          $25.60

          First Responder Lifetime Small Game and Fishing Combo

          Resident (permanent occupational disability)

          Free

          Veterans Lifetime Small Game and Fishing Combo

          Resident (60% disabled or Purple Heart recipient)

          Free

          Band-tailed Pigeon Permit

          Resident and Nonresident

          $5.00

          Colorado Outdoors Hunting Guide cover

          Special Edition

          Colorado Outdoors Hunting Guide

          This special to Colorado Outdoors is loaded with great content including articles on hunting during rut, staying safe in the field, guided youth hunts, preparing for Colorado's temperature swings, hunting dusky grouse, and so much more! 

          View the contents page.

          Canada geese taking flight.

          Hunting Requirement

          Harvest Information Program

          Hunters planning to use their small game license to hunt small game, coyote and migratory birds will need to obtain their Harvest Information Program (HIP) number online at CPWShop.com, at any CPW location or sales agent, or by calling an automated phone service at 1-855-521-3050, before they can legally hunt. Hunters who only wish to hunt furbearers (excluding coyote) do not need to register.

          Hunting

          Walk-In-Access Program Dove Hunting

          More than 154,000 acres are open to dove hunting through Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Walk-In-Access program. Although not all properties have the right habitat for doves, many areas offer good hunting opportunities.

          Brochures

          small game and waterfowl brochure cover

          Colorado Small Game and Waterfowl Hunting Brochure

          Be sure to read the “What’s New” pages to see a full list of changes on tap for the upcoming hunting seasons.

          Download the Brochure