Small Game
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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.
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
Need to Know
What you need to buy a license
- Proper identification and proof of residency (for Colorado residents).
- Proof of hunter education.
- A Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is required for hunters age 12 and older, per federal law.
- Habitat Stamp: An annual ($12.47) habitat stamp is automatically added to a license purchase for anyone ages 18 to 64. Residents with a Colorado lifetime license are exempt.
Ways to Hunt Small Game
Small Game License Requirements
-
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.
-
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 license. 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
Season |
Notes |
Start Date |
End Date |
Add to Calendar |
Brochure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
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 or a small-game license. 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
Need to Know
What you need to buy a license
- Proper identification and proof of residency (for Colorado residents).
- Proof of hunter education.
- A Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is required for hunters age 12 and older, per federal law.
- Habitat Stamp: An annual ($12.47) habitat stamp is automatically added to a license purchase for anyone ages 18 to 64. Residents with a Colorado lifetime license are exempt.
Ways to Hunt Small Game
Small Game License Requirements
-
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.
-
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 license. 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
Season |
Notes |
Start Date |
End Date |
Add to Calendar |
GMU Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
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
Need to Know
What you need to buy a license
- Proper identification and proof of residency (for Colorado residents).
- Proof of hunter education.
- A Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is required for hunters age 12 and older, per federal law.
- Habitat Stamp: An annual ($12.47) habitat stamp is automatically added to a license purchase for anyone ages 18 to 64. Residents with a Colorado lifetime license are exempt.
Ways to Hunt Small Game
Small Game License Requirements
-
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.
-
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
Season |
Notes |
Start Date |
End Date |
Add to Calendar |
GMU Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
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.
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.
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.
Hunting License Fees
License Type |
Hunter Type |
Fee |
|---|---|---|
|
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 (Ages 64+) |
$35.32 |
|
Senior Annual Small Game Upgrade for Lifetime Fishing and Resident Low Income Senior Fishing Annual License Holders |
Resident |
$24.49 |
|
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 |
SOLD OUT
Colorado Outdoors 2025 Annual Preference Point Issue
Big-game preference points for planning your 2025 hunt, plus herd counts and much more! Get your copy today!
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.
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
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