Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, & Parks

Squirrel and Rabbit Become Legal Saturday

Saturday is a grand day for small-game hunters across Mississippi and Mother Nature is predicted to be on her best behavior. Squirrel season opens in Zone 2 and rabbit season opens statewide, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Zone 2 is the area between Highway 82 and Highway 84 plus portions of the state south of Highway 84 and west of I-55.

The daily bag limit for squirrel and rabbit is 8, with a possession limit of 16 after opening day. The season will remain open until February 28, 2008.

"Weather forecasters predict morning temperatures to be in the upper 40's and low 50's for Saturday's opening day," said Chief of Wildlife, Larry Castle. "Regionally, squirrel populations are average, with some areas reporting outstanding numbers. The mast crop for much of Zone 2 is very good, so squirrels may be scattered as they don't have to go far for a meal."

Hunters will need a valid small game license unless exempt. Apprentice licenses are available on a one-time basis for those hunters who have not yet completed the required hunter education course. Consult the Outdoor Digest for complete license requirements.

Rabbit hunters should find an average to above average rabbit population. Rains have been adequate enough to keep grass and forbs favored by bunnies in palatable condition. Southeast Mississippi, where Hurricane Katrina damaged so much timber, has excellent rabbit habitat this year.

Dove season re-opened October 6 in the northern zone and remains open until October 27. The daily bag limit is 12 with a possession limit of 24.

"Cooler weather to the north will force some bigger doves into Mississippi," said Scott Baker, Migratory Bird Program Director. "Hunters who ignore the later dove seasons are missing out on some fine shooting. All our public fields are still reporting birds."

Don't be late, take advantage of the upcoming small game season, and introduce a new hunter to the wonders of Mississippi's outdoors.