The season could well start this year in February for Alabama. It has started in February for at least the last 3 years running. Ground temps near Bham have a ways to go; 2,3,4 weeks or more depending on the weather. My hunting partner and I are watching our spot that is dozens of miles south of Auburn, Al. At this location the soil is warming and air temps are forecast to be averaging hi 64 and lo 47 for rest of January. If that verifies and it doesnt turn back real cold in February we may venture out around Feb 5th or Feb 10th. Definitely time to watch soil and weather forecasts from Augusta to Dallas and points south of that line