Since 1962, the annual Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) August Roadside Survey has been a means to collect statewide data on pheasants, quail and partridge as well as cottontail and jackrabbits. The survey gets underway today (Wednesday), and will run through Wednesday, Aug. 15. DNR staff members will be up before the crack of dawn, driving 218, 30-mile routes on gravel roads to be present when hens move their broods to the edge of the road to dry off before feeding. “Conditions for the survey are important,” says Todd Bogenschutz, DNR upland wildlife research biologist. “We want to see an accurate count. Last year we were in a drought and the dry conditions likely didn’t accurately reflect the population.” While Bogenschutz is expecting the pheasant sightings to record a decrease, he is optimistic that the number of quail will see an increase. Results from the survey will be posted at www.iowadnr.gov/pheasantsurvey, by Sept. 10. Pheasant season in Iowa opens on Oct. 27.
