South Dakota is home to a wide variety of birds. Some are native to the Mount Rushmore State, while others are just passing through.

When it comes to our state, there are some very specific guidelines in place that prohibit the hunting and trapping of certain birds.

Obviously, pheasants, grouse, and quail are all fair game in South Dakota. But what about other birds, such as crows, cardinals, and bluejays? The answers may surprise you.

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GreenSprocket via Duluth
GreenSprocket via Duluth
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Northern Cardinal: The Northern Cardinal is protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.

Credit: Jeremy Hynes via Unsplash
Credit: Jeremy Hynes via Unsplash
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Blue Jay: Blue Jays are quite prevalent in the eastern part of South Dakota, and are also protected under the Federal Migratory BIrd Act.

Credit: Dimitar Donovski via Unsplash
Credit: Dimitar Donovski via Unsplash
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American Crow: It is legal to shoot or trap crows in South Dakota, however, it's seasonal. According to the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department, the Crow season began on March 1st and ends on April 30th. It will begin again on September 1st and last through Halloween.

For more information on birds and their hunting seasons in South Dakota, check out the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department website. You can also find more hunting information at Project Upland. 

Story Source: South Dakota Game Fish and ParksSialis WebsiteProject Upland

5 Things South Dakota Gave the World

South Dakota may not get much respect. We get a blizzard and it's a footnote on the national scene, but if Florida gets a bit chilly it's breaking news. But, maybe it's fine to be forgotten about. We kind of like being left alone on our quiet piece of the plains.

South Dakota has given a lot to the world though. Not just giant mountain carvings and settings for HBO shows, but awesome things that the rest of the world should thank us for.

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