The 2006/2007 small game seasons in Region V are expected to be fair this year.
Winter rains failed to materialize, spring rains were spotty but the summer rains during August were excellent.

Quail – Quail hunting in Region V should be below average this year, but not as good as last year, based on quail survey data. Three species of quail are found in Region V: Gambel’s, Scaled and Mearns’. Gambel's quail are by far the most common and well distributed throughout upland Sonoran habitats.

Scaled quail are found in Chihuahuan desert grasslands, primarily in the southeastern portion of the region. The outlook for scaled quail is dismal.

Mearns’ quail occur in the oak-grassland savannah habitats in the higher elevations. Mearns’ could be a bright spot this year and there could be some pockets of excellent hunting thanks in large part to a superb summer green up.

Dove – Dove populations are about average throughout the region. Large populations of birds dispersed into the desert areas during the monsoon season requiring some preseason scouting to locate. Once found these populations should provide good shooting.

Cottontail – Rabbit hunting will be good this year given increased cottontail abundance. Get out early and enjoy some of the best hunting of the year. Rabbit hunting before the bird season gives you an opportunity to scout for other species and hunt without any competition. Try the early morning hours along desert washes with a .22 rifle.

Also consider bagging some rabbits while quail and dove hunting. Multiple-bag hunts are a great way to introduce young hunters to the sport.

Waterfowl – Waterfowl opportunities are very limited although birds exist on stock tanks and ponds across the region. Try the Sulfur Springs Valley from Willcox to Douglas. Much of this area is private land, so be sure to obtain permission from the landowner prior to hunting. Like other wildlife, ducks are the ones who decide on where they'll hang out, so scout before your hunt.