Today officially marks the beginning of dove season in Alabama, and area hunters and their children are invited to participate in two upcoming youth dove hunts.

Capt. Don Herring, district supervisor with Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, said shooting will begin at noon today but indicators show the season might be off to a slow start.

“It looks like there are a lot of doves in the south zone, which is where Covington County is located,” Herring said. “Farmers had trouble getting peanuts out of the fields, which might prove to be a hindrance for hunters, since birds love to congregate with freshly harvested crops.

“The rain really slowed up the peanut harvest, but I think we’re back on schedule now,” he said. “Peanuts are one of doves’ most favorite foods and when they’re freshly turned, it’s easy pickings for them.”

Herring said a youth hunt is scheduled for today in Geneva County for ages 15 and under. They must be accompanied by a licensed adult, who may also participant in the hunt. Gates open at 2 p.m.

Another youth hunt is scheduled Oct. 24 in Andalusia behind the U.S. Forest Service Office on Hwy. 29. Participants must register by calling 334-222-5415. Gates open at 1:30 p.m.

“We sponsor these family hunts because we feel like there are so few family outings available anymore,” Herring said. “We just encourage times for parents to get together with their children and enjoy outdoors, which is an activity that needs to be passed on to younger generations.

“There is a lot to be offered that’s not on a computer or TV screen. And that’s what the outdoors can offer,” he said.

For more information on dove hunting or any other wildlife hunting season, contact the Andalusia office at 334-222-5415 or by visiting the Web site at outdooralabama.com.