Is it legal to hunt birds in California w/ a bow and arrow/crossbow? also do I need

[DjSpeedSlug]

a liscence? i wanna hunt out in the wild backcountry, and maybe get some seagulls at the beach...j/k
also, is there different rules for parks and beaches?

[oldseadog54]

I don't think you can use a crossbow on birds, but a longbow or compound bow can be used to take game birds in season. A special type of fletching (feathers at nock end of shaft) called "flu-flu" radically slows arrow flight after 20 yards or so resulting in fewer lost arrows from shooting into the air. Also a good safety feature for the same reason. Use a wide rubber blunt tip to hunt with rather than a field point (practice) or broadhead (big-game hunting). These kill with blunt force trauma and not blood loss or vital organ penetration. Some bird points also have thin stiff wire loops sticking out to the side to ensnare the bird. Check your local regulations as to seasons and weapons usage, though. There is a famous video of Fred Bear (Bear Archery Founder) bagging rooster pheasants with a longbow. Hope this helps. Good hunting.

[dru332]

Not if you are a native american. Pretend to be an indian and your good to go.