The annual Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) pheasant population survey begins next week, and state officials are optimistic the recent trend of higher bird numbers will continue into the 2022 season. From Aug. 1 through Aug. 15, DNR staff will drive over more than 200 separate 30-mile routes on gravel roads during mornings with heavy dew. Hens typically move their broods to the edge of the roads around dawn to dry off before feeding, making them easier to count. Todd Bogenschutz, an upland wildlife research biologist, suggests the state may exceed last year’s decade-high figures. He says, “Last year, south-central Iowa had an average count of six pheasants per route, so I’d be surprised if this year’s counts aren’t higher. The question is, if the counts in the counties in the northern third of the state can go higher, where we had good numbers and good hunting.” In June, the DNR issued its annual prediction for the upcoming survey based on snowfall, rainfall, and temperatures recorded during the winter and early spring and estimated numbers would meet or exceed 2021’s figures. That is good news for hunters, who harvested an estimated 375,000 roosters last year. Staff also collect data on quail, partridge, cottontails, and jackrabbits while in the field. Survey results will be posted in early September at www.iowadnr.gov/pheasantsurvey. Iowa’s pheasant season opens on Oct. 29.
