Minnesota ducking hunting season begins September 21 and the Minnesota DNR reminds Minnesotans who hunt migratory birds that they must become "HIP"-certified.

According to the DNR, this is required for hunters of all migratory birds--not just ducks and geese, but woodcock, snipe, rails and mourning doves too.

"HIP" stands for Harvest Information Program, an annual program in which hunters provide information that helps biologists manage North America's migratory gamebird populations.

Becoming "HIP"-certified is part of the process of getting a license:

To comply with "HIP", hunters must identify themselves as migratory bird hunters and answer several questions about their hunting experience during last year's season. The license agent will input this information as part of the purchase of a small game or sports license.

Migratory bird hunters need to make sure that their license agents get them signed up for "HIP" when they purchase their small game or sports licenses. When a hunter is properly signed up, the license will have the words "HIP Certification" listed on the customer's small game or sports license.

 

Hunters are also reminded to carry proof of their participation in "HIP" wherever they hunt migratory birds. Hunters who fail to provide proof of participation in the "HIP" program can be ticketed or fined.

You can follow the link below to purchase your hunting license, listed as "Waterfowl/migratory birds - HIP Certification".

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