Game Bird Hunting
Species
Oregon's diverse landscapes support diverse populations of both upland birds and waterfowl. Name a habitat type and chances are there is a game bird (or two) to be found there: coastal estuaries -- brant; rocky river canyons -- chukar partridge; marshes of eastern Oregon -- gadwall; forested slopes of the Cascades -- ruffed grouse; wooded streams of western Oregon -- wood duck; grasslands and agricultural fields -- ringnecked pheasant. And practically everywhere -- mallard and Canada goose.
Most Popular Species
Mallard
Mention ducks and many people think of the mallard. Its ability to tolerate human disturbance and adapt to urban as well as rural habitats make it the Northern Hemisphere's most abundant and widespread waterfowl.
Canada goose
With both resident and migratory populations, there are ample numbers of Canada geese in Oregon. And as good table fair, they make for a great addition to any holiday spread.
Ring-necked pheasant
In 1882 the Willamette Valley of Oregon was the site of the first successful introduction of ring-necked pheasants in the United States. Those birds were transported by sea directly from China by Judge Owen Denny. The transplanted birds found perfect habitat and soon populations burgeoned into the tens of thousands.
Wild turkey
Wild turkeys were first introduced into Oregon in the 1960s. Since then, populations have grown enough that hunters can enjoy both spring and fall hunting seasons with generous bag limits.
Other Game Bird Species
Oregon has two of the six species native to North America. A group of quail is called a "covey".
This migratory bird offers Oregon wing shooters an early opportunity to hunt, and with their quick flight, will sharpen your shooting skills.
This migratory bird has a generous bag limit, making it an alternative to other waterfowl hunting.
The mourning dove kicks off the bird hunting season. These migratory birds are fast flyers, giving hunters a good warm up to the season.
Like waterfowl, this migratory bird frequents wetlands and other waterfowl habitats. But Wilson's snipe is a shorebird, which can add another dimension to any waterfowl...
Oregon has several species of duck, including both dabblers and divers. They can be found from the saltwater of the coast to the far eastern...
Geese can be found throughout Oregon. With five species available for harvest and liberal seasons, including and early and late season Canada goose seasons, there...
Grouse are primarily ground-dwelling birds, though they can fly short distances. Their legs, toes, and nostrils are feathered, making them adapted to living in colder...
CONTROLLED
Greater sage-grouse are on the lower level of productivity, but are generally longer-lived than most other upland species.
Permit Sale Deadline:
Before the last day of the hunt
For hunt details and controlled hunt information, visit: e-regulations
One of Oregon’s most challenging birds to hunt due to the rocky, rugged habitat partridges prefer and their ability to run uphill (and fly downhill)...
Additional Resources
Check waterfowl harvest statistics
Check the waterfowl harvest statistics for several popular wildlife areas.
Find a place to hunt
Finding a place to hunt can be a challenge — even in a state that's 50 percent public land. This map will help you find access for your next hunt.
Find your hunter information
Check preference points, application results and report hunts.
Check out the Recreation Report
Current conditions and opportunities to hunt, fish and see wildlife. Updated weekly by fish and wildlife biologists throughout the state.