As publishedSept 1-27, 2026; Nov 23-29, 2026; Dec 7, 2026 - Jan 31, 2027
Matches 'Option 1' from DNREC's spring 2026 proposal process ('similar to 2025-26 season').Non-toxic shot required for September dove hunting on State Wildlife Areas. Guide carries a standard boilerplate disclaimer that dates/limits are 'contingent upon approval from the US Fish and Wildlife Service' pending final federal frameworks - normal for all states, not a DE-specific uncertainty flag.
No DE-specific mourning dove survey or outlook; only the federal USFWS Mourning Dove Population Status report (Eastern Management Unit) applies. Confirmed still unpublished for 2026 as of 2026-08-19 (same-day check already run this Tier B pass, direct fetch 404), expected ~September 2026.