If you miss the rush of exploding wings accentuated by a raucous cackle as a pheasant rooster bursts into the sky, think about heading to the Midwest or Great Plains for an upland bird hunt this year.
Iowa and the states surrounding it have had ideal growing weather, with recent bird counts showing a dramatic rise in the game bird populations.
Bird hunts in this area are often accompanied by comfortable accommodations and great work by dogs (yours or theirs) and hunting conditions appear excellent for the year ahead. Read the full report.
Iowa wildlife officials predict a successful season for bird hunters after a recent survey recorded population booms in the state’s three most popular game bird species. The August Roadside Survey, conducted every year by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), found a statewide average of 17.4 pheasants per 30 mile route. Compared to 6.9 per 30 miles in 2013, the DNR said the count represents a drastic increase. Quail and partridge saw a similar increase in density by 142 and 147 percent, respectively.
“Everything did well this year,” said Todd Bogenschutz, upland wildlife biologist for the DNR, in a press release.
