Called preserves, game parks, game farms or clubs at various times, commercial game-bird operations have several common threads for the variety of bird hunters’ interests.
All release pen-raised birds for hunters and are subject to guidelines that permit the release of ringneck pheasants, chukar and gray partridge, quail and mallard ducks. Last year, 92 operations were licensed by the Colorado Division of Wildlife.
Because the birds are commercially produced, not wild, the operations can offer longer seasons, usually running from late September or early October through March. Small-game hunting licenses generally are not required. Normal bag and possession limits do not apply; usually they’re determined on a cost-per-bird basis.
Beyond that, individual operations offer different packages. Some are clubs, requiring membership payments and limiting hunts to members and their guests. Others are open to all, requiring only advance notice to schedule a time and set out birds.
Many will customize the session to meet the customer’s desires, whether it is as a dog-training exercise or a true hunt that resembles regular-season hunting for wild birds.
The commercial operations have plenty to offer, and though the birds might not be truly wild, for many hunters they’re the next best thing.
