Did Your State's Pheasants Survive Winter?

by
posted on May 5, 2014
dogs_ah2015_fs.jpg (28)

Pheasants have an average lifespan of only about two years. So, when hens fare poorly through the winter, it can have a disastrous effect on population densities. Therefore there is concern among upland hunters, given the brutally cold, lingering winter we just experienced.

According to Pheasants Forever (PF), weather is one of two primary factors affecting pheasant populations on a yearly basis, the other being habitat quality. Severe winters can result in adult bird mortality, which obviously decreases the population, but there is a more crucial variable: A sufficient number of hens must survive the winter and do so with sufficient health and strength to nest. Strong hens lay larger clutches of eggs, which means more birds in the fall.

So, how did last winter affect the birds? PF has a good state-by-state breakdown of the major strongholds. It appears that heavy snow and bitter cold struck the Great Lakes region hardest. The Dakotas had a milder winter; in fact PF is concerned by their lack of precipitation, which will do little to alleviate drought-impacted habitat.

For the full breakdown, visit the Pheasants Forever blog.

Latest

Trijicon New MRO SD Lead
Trijicon New MRO SD Lead

First Look: Trijicon New MRO SD

The next generation of Trijicon’s Miniature Rifle Optic is optimized for use with a magnifier.

Revolver Build: Fink's Custom Taurus Raging Hunter .44 Magnum

This big bore revolver is tricked out for handgun hunting, defense against dangerous game and personal protection. 

First Look: JK Armament RPX .30Cal Suppressor

JK Armament is proud to announce its all-purpose .30-caliber suppressor, the JK 155 RPX .30CAL.

Behind the Bullet: 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum

Curious about the 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum? Learn about the history and performance of this storied cartridge in Phil Massaro's latest Behind the Bullet.

First Look: Rossi LWC Folding Stock

Rossi's Lightweight Carbine (LWC) has been a favorite truck gun and scouting rifle for hunters since its introduction. Now, Rossi USA is taking it a step further with the launch of the Rossi LWC Folding Stock—available both as a complete rifle and as an easy-to-install accessory for current LWC owners.

Safe Gun Storage After Hunting Season

With the close of deer seasons, many hunters have stored their firearms. While the basics of gun safety are covered in hunter education programs, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) recently issued a reminder that storage out of season should be reviewed by sportsmen.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.