Robert Zavala, 19, looked up at the dawn sky on the grassy field, searching for doves. He grabbed his shotgun, placed it against his shoulder and aimed. He pulled the trigger, the blast interrupting the morning silence, and watched as his quarry plummeted to the ground.

Zavala and his father were among about 30 people who gathered Sept. 7 at the Robbins Butte Wildlife Area near Buckeye to participate in the Dove Hunting Made Simple event.

“I’ve never hunted birds before,” said Zavala, who had previously only shot clay targets. “Got to shoot a shotgun, just hang out, and have a good time.”

Valley of the Sun Quail Forever co-hosted the event with the Arizona Game and Fish Department to inspire wildlife conservation by showcasing mentored dove hunting events.

With dove hunting events host

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