What is the ruling on hunting birds in these months, and are they sacred months or not?

Hunting birds or other animals is permissible unless the person is in a state of ihram for Hajj or Umrah, or if the hunting takes place within the Haram (sacred precinct), or if the intention is mere amusement, in which case it is disliked. This is based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Whoever pursues hunting will become heedless." The sacred months are: Dhul-Qa'dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab (the solitary one). These months are distinguished by the fact that sins committed within them incur a more severe punishment, and acts of obedience yield greater reward. However, permissible hunting and other permissible activities are not forbidden during these months.