Quick Answer
Some sunflower varieties, such as Mammoth Grey Stripe and Velvet Queen, are known to attract more doves due to their higher oil content and seed size, making them more appealing to mourning dove populations.
Choosing the Right Sunflowers for Dove Hunting
When selecting sunflowers for dove hunting, look for varieties with higher oil content and larger seeds. These characteristics make the sunflowers more attractive to mourning doves, increasing the chances of attracting more birds to your field. For example, Mammoth Grey Stripe sunflowers are a popular choice among dove hunters due to their 1.5-inch diameter seeds and 20% oil content.
Sunflower Planting Techniques for Dove Hunting
To maximize the effectiveness of your sunflower planting, consider using a combination of sunflower species and planting them at different spacings. Planting sunflowers at 12-inch intervals can create a dense stand that appeals to doves, while interspersing them with other crops like millet or milo can provide additional forage and attract a wider variety of bird species.
Dove Hunting Strategies for Early Season
When dove hunting in the early season, focus on fields with dense, lush vegetation and abundant food sources. Look for areas with a mix of sunflowers, millet, and other crops, as these will attract a higher concentration of doves. Consider using a combination of decoys and a calling blind to lure birds in during the early season, when populations are still building and birds are more active and vocal.
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