Desert Birds: Upland Bird Hunting in Arizona

Arizona Upland Birds

Arizona’s diverse landscapes, from arid deserts to rugged mountains, provide a unique and challenging environment for quail hunting and upland bird hunting. The state is home to a variety of upland game birds, including quail, dove, chukar, and pheasant. Hunters in Arizona can enjoy the thrill of pursuing these elusive birds while soaking in the beauty of the Southwest.

Why Arizona is a Premier Destination for Upland Bird Hunting and the Arizona Quail Slam

Arizona’s mix of desert basins, high plateaus, and mountainous regions offers prime habitats for a wide variety of upland game birds. The state’s mild winters make it a popular destination for hunters seeking to extend their season while experiencing one-of-a-kind terrain. Arizona’s strong conservation efforts and public land access further enhance its appeal to upland bird hunters.

Whether you’re hunting quail through mesquite thickets or climbing rocky ridges for chukar, Arizona’s challenging conditions and abundant bird populations promise an unforgettable hunting experience.

Upland Bird Species Found in Arizona

Gambel’s Quail

• Habitat: Gambel's quail are found in desert areas, often near washes and mesquite thickets.

• Behavior: Known for their distinctive topknot and rapid bursts of flight when startled.

• Hunting Tips: Look for them early in the morning or late afternoon near water sources.

Scaled Quail

Habitat: Found in grasslands and semi-arid regions, often in the southeastern parts of the state, desert quail, including Gambel's and scaled quail, face challenges due to extreme drought conditions affecting their breeding and survival rates.

Behavior: Also known as “blue quail” for their bluish-gray plumage, these birds prefer running to flying.

Hunting Tips: Focus on areas with plenty of cover, such as tall grasses and yucca.

Mearns’ Quail

• Habitat: Found in oak-grassland habitats in southern Arizona, especially in higher elevations.

• Behavior: Known for their striking plumage and habit of flushing in unpredictable directions.

• Hunting Tips: Target areas with oak trees and grassy slopes. These birds rely on camouflage, so a dog can be helpful.

Mourning Dove Hunting

• Habitat: Found statewide, particularly near agricultural fields and water sources.

• Behavior: Known for their fast, darting flight patterns.

• Hunting Tips: Hunt near watering holes or food sources during early mornings and evenings.

White-Winged Dove

• Habitat: Found in desert and agricultural areas, particularly in the southern part of the state.

• Behavior: Similar to mourning doves but with more limited range.

• Hunting Tips: Focus on areas with abundant mesquite or fruit-bearing plants.

Chukar Partridge

• Habitat: Found in rocky, steep terrains, often near water sources in northern Arizona.

• Behavior: These birds are known for their uphill sprints and tendency to stay near rugged terrain.

• Hunting Tips: Be prepared for physically demanding hunts. Use spotting techniques to locate flocks on ridges.

Pheasant

• Habitat: Found in agricultural areas and wetlands, primarily in northeastern Arizona.

• Behavior: Pheasants are elusive and prefer dense cover.

• Hunting Tips: Target brushy field edges or areas with tall grass.

Top Upland Bird Hunting Locations in Arizona

Southeastern Arizona

This region is a hotspot for Mearns’, Gambel’s, and scaled quail. The oak-grasslands, mesquite thickets, and rolling terrain provide excellent habitat for these species.

Hunters can experience the Arizona Quail Slam, a thrilling hunting adventure involving the successful harvest of all three quail species in a single day, thanks to the state's favorable climate and accessible terrain.

Central Arizona

The desert regions around Phoenix and Tucson are ideal for Gambel’s quail and mourning doves. Look for birds near washes and areas with abundant vegetation.

Northern Arizona

Northern Arizona’s high plateaus and rugged terrain are home to chukar and scaled quail. Areas near the Mogollon Rim and Kaibab Plateau offer challenging but rewarding hunts. Additionally, the region is known for blue grouse, also referred to as dusky grouse, which prefer the mountainous habitats and provide unique hunting opportunities with specific season dates and bag limits.

Agricultural Fields and River Bottoms

Areas near the Colorado River and other agricultural zones are prime spots for mourning doves, white-winged doves, and occasional pheasants.

Hunters may also encounter California quail in these regions, adding to the diversity of upland game bird species available.

Public Lands

Arizona boasts millions of acres of public land, including national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, and state trust lands. These areas provide ample opportunities for upland bird hunting.

Upland Bird Hunting Seasons and Regulations in Arizona

Seasons

• Quail: Typically runs from late fall through early winter, with specific dates varying by species.

• Dove: The early season begins in September, with a late season running through January.

• Chukar: Usually aligns with quail season, extending through late winter.

• Pheasant: Limited opportunities, often with specific hunts or designated areas.

Licenses and Permits

• A valid Arizona hunting license is required for all upland bird hunting.

• Migratory bird hunters (e.g., dove) must also have a HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification.

• Hunters should consult the Arizona Game and Fish Department for exact season dates, bag limits, and zone regulations.

Essential Gear for Upland Bird Hunting in Arizona

Hunting in Arizona’s rugged and varied terrain requires preparation and the right equipment:

• Shotgun and Ammunition: A lightweight 20- or 12-gauge shotgun with appropriate loads for upland birds (e.g., #7.5 or #8 shot) is ideal.

• Hunting Boots: Durable, lightweight boots with good ankle support are essential for navigating rocky and uneven terrain.

• Field Vest: A vest with ample pockets for shells, water, and harvested birds is highly recommended.

• Eye and Ear Protection: Essential for safety while shooting.

• Dog Gear: A trained pointing or flushing dog can greatly enhance your success, particularly for quail and pheasants.

• Water and Hydration Pack: Arizona’s dry climate demands that you stay hydrated during your hunt.

• Layered Clothing: Mornings can be cool, but temperatures often rise quickly. Dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions.

• Navigation Tools: A GPS device or detailed map is critical for exploring remote areas.

Strategies for Successful Upland Bird Hunting in Arizona

Scouting

• Pre-Hunt Scouting: Identify areas with food sources, water, and cover. Birds are most active near these areas during the early morning and late afternoon.

• Map Study: Use satellite maps to locate promising habitats, such as washes, grassy slopes, and agricultural zones.

Timing

• Early Mornings and Evenings: Birds are most active during cooler parts of the day, especially near water sources.

Hunting Techniques

• Walk and Flush: For Gambel’s and scaled quail, walk through likely cover to flush birds into flight. These tough birds have managed to survive despite adverse weather patterns and low breeding success, making them a challenging target for hunters.

• Use a Dog: A well-trained dog can locate hidden birds, flush them, or retrieve downed game, especially for Mearns’ quail and pheasants.

• Spot and Stalk: For chukar in open, rocky terrain, use binoculars to locate flocks and plan a strategic approach.

Adjusting to Terrain

• Desert: Focus on washes, mesquite thickets, and areas near water sources.

• Grasslands: Look for birds in areas with tall grasses and scattered shrubs.

• Mountains: Be prepared for steep hikes when hunting chukar or scaled quail in rugged terrain.

Conservation and Ethical Hunting Practices

Wild birds in Arizona’s upland regions thrive due to careful management and conservation efforts. Hunters can contribute by:

• Following bag limits and regulations to ensure sustainable populations.

• Respecting private property and obtaining permission when necessary.

• Minimizing waste by retrieving all downed birds and using the meat.

• Supporting habitat restoration projects and conservation organizations.

Conclusion

Arizona’s unique landscapes and abundant upland bird species make it a must-visit destination for hunters. Whether chasing quail through desert washes, climbing rocky slopes for chukar, or targeting doves in agricultural fields, the state offers a variety of challenges and rewards. By scouting effectively, choosing the right gear, and adapting to the terrain, hunters can enjoy a successful and memorable upland bird hunting experience in Arizona.

FAQs

What makes Arizona a great destination for upland bird hunting?

Arizona’s diverse habitats support a wide range of upland bird species, including quail, dove, chukar, and pheasant, providing hunters with varied and challenging opportunities.

When is the best time for upland bird hunting in Arizona?

The best time depends on the species. Quail and chukar hunting peaks in late fall and winter, while dove hunting is most popular in early September and late-season January hunts.

Where are the best places to hunt upland birds in Arizona?

Top locations include southeastern Arizona for Mearns’ quail, central deserts for Gambel’s quail, northern plateaus for chukar, and agricultural zones near the Colorado River for doves.

What gear is essential for upland bird hunting in Arizona?

Key gear includes a lightweight shotgun, durable boots, hydration packs, layered clothing, and navigation tools. A trained dog is also beneficial for locating and retrieving birds.

Do I need special permits to hunt upland birds in Arizona?

Yes, a valid Arizona hunting license is required, and migratory bird hunters must also have a HIP certification. Check Arizona Game and Fish regulations for species-specific requirements.