CDFW Officers Charge Hunter With Killing Upland Birds Out Of Season

The following is courtesy of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife:

A tip from the public reporting poaching activity in San Luis Obispo County led to a trip to the county jail for one individual who was hunting out-of-season upland game birds.

On May 14, 2026, a wildlife officer responding to a tip located the suspect vehicle and conducted a traffic stop after observing a traffic violation.

During the stop, the officer observed an air rifle (an often-used method of take for poachers as it is quiet) and feathers inside the vehicle. A subsequent search revealed a hen turkey, a California quail and a mourning dove — all of which are not currently in season.

An investigation determined the suspect had unlawfully shot and killed all three birds. They were arrested and booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail on multiple wildlife violations.

CDFW reminds the public that California’s wildlife belongs to all Californians. Wildlife laws and seasonal regulations are in place to protect these shared natural resources and ensure healthy, sustainable populations for future generations.

If you witness a poaching or polluting incident or any fish and wildlife violation, or have information about such a violation, call the toll-free CALTIP number 1 888 334-CALTIP (888 334-2258). And anyone with a cell phone may send an anonymous tip to CDFW by texting “CALTIP,” followed by a space and the message, to 847411 (tip411).