Hunting in Colorado: 4 Animals To Hunt in the Spring

Spring offers a few opportunities for hunting in Colorado, but many species are protected during birthing season in spring. Spring is also a great time to plan for outings later in the year, when game is more available in fall and winter. Purchase licenses and permits, research hunt spots in your area, and reserve camp spots for fall outings during the summer.

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The spring months in Colorado are generally unpredictable in regards to weather, and hunting in Colorado could involve days with hot temperatures or some with snowfall. The higher elevations of the Rocky Mountains, including several great hunt sites, post the coolest temps but the conditions are usually quite comfortable for this challenging activity. Hunters should also be prepared for precipitation at any time, bring gear for rain and snow. It’s not unusual to see the snow fall through May. Some of the spring’s legal hunting pursuits are:

1. Turkeys—These birds like hardwood and mixed confer/hardwood habitats and gather near open areas like pastures and marshes. Their preferred locations include wooded areas near rivers and swamps. Wild Turkeys, unlike their domestic cousins, are agile fliers but they usually fly close to the ground and they do not fly more than about a quarter mile at a time. Turkeys vocalize several sounds, including gobbling, clucking and whining, which often lead hunters to their locations. Plan to hunt turkeys in April and May if you are hunting in Colorado.
2. Mountain Lions—These are the largest cats in Colorado and adults can be more than six feet long. This cat is also called other names, such as panther, puma, and cougar. They are found throughout the Americas, from Canada to Argentina and they are abundant in Colorado mesas, canyons, and foothills. They prefer bushy areas to forests or open land. They can be hunted December through parts of April.

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3. Eurasian Collared Doves—They prefer open woodlands and prairies, but they can also be found around cities. Doves love seeds, and tend to eat seeds found near farms and those in the forest, such as weed seeds and wild flower seeds. 
4. Ground Squirrels—They are found in nearly every corner of Colorado. Various species roam through cities and forest areas, ranging from tiny versions to rock squirrels that can be up to 20-inches-long. Ground squirrels are active during the day, and their preferred diet includes seeds and fruits.

The dates for hunting seasons are subject to change and hunters should check the Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife website to keep current on seasonal issues. Hunters can confirm the legality of species, get GPS map information, and find help in getting necessary licenses and permits.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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