{"id":278013,"date":"2025-08-16T10:46:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-16T10:46:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.hyh.com.ar\/?p=278013"},"modified":"2026-05-14T16:57:43","modified_gmt":"2026-05-14T16:57:43","slug":"dove-hunting-in-argentina-species-habits-best-techniques","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hyh.com.ar\/blog\/dove-hunting-in-argentina-species-habits-best-techniques\/","title":{"rendered":"Dove Hunting in Argentina: Species, Habits & Best Techniques"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When it comes to pigeon hunting in Argentina, many hunters are drawn by the fame of the golden dove (eared dove), the undisputed star of the Cordoba skies. But did you know it\u2019s not the only species you can hunt? In this guide, we\u2019ll introduce you to the main pigeon varieties found in Argentina, their behavior, and the best techniques to pursue each one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Major pigeon species in Argentina<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Eared dove (Zenaida auriculata)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

It is the star of hunting in Cordoba. Easily adaptable to different regions and extremely prolific, guaranteeing constant flying days. Its flight is agile, with erratic patterns, which requires fast reflexes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Picazuro Pigeon (Patagioenas picazuro)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The Picazuro is the largest of the huntable species in Argentina and offers a completely different challenge from the eared dove. It flies higher, slower and in a more predictable pattern \u2014 but its size and altitude make it a demanding target that rewards precision over speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At H&H Outfitters’ Escondido Lodge<\/a>, Picazuro hunting is available in the same trip as dove hunting \u2014 making it the only lodge in the region where you can pursue both species in a single visit. Mornings on dove fields, afternoons on pigeon \u2014 or dedicate entire days to either species.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Key characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best season: year-round at Escondido Lodge<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Size: significantly larger than the eared dove<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Flight: high, slower and more linear than dove<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Difficulty: low \u2014 slower and more predictable flight than dove<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Spot-Winged Pigeon (Patagioenas maculosa)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Less common but present in specific regions of C\u00f3rdoba. Recognized by its robust size and distinctive white spots on the wings. They move in small groups at higher altitude, making them one of the more challenging targets in Argentina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Key characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best season: varies by region<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Size: large, similar to Picazuro<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Flight: high altitude, in small groups<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Difficulty: high \u2014 requires strategic positioning and terrain knowledge<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Rock Pigeon (Columba livia)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Also known as pigeon, it is the classic urban pigeon, but in rural environments it can be seen feeding in open fields. It is not a common target, but its presence can add diversity to the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Habitat and behavior<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most species live in cultivated areas and steppe, taking advantage of the abundance of seeds and the temperate climate. Eared dove, for example, can breed several times a year thanks to the availability of food. Other species, such as the pigeon, are well adapted to semi-urban areas and are opportunistic when looking for food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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