Biologists, hunters banking on second quail hatch

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August roadside surveys conducted by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation show a statewide decrease of 55 percent over the 2005 survey.

However, wildlife officials think a significant number of late nesting attempts could bring bird numbers back up to par by the time October counts are conducted.

“Results of the August survey generally don’t include quail produced from late nesting attempts, which typically peak in late August. But we know from field reports that there are lots of young birds out there,” said Doug Schoeling, upland bird biologist for the Wildlife Department.

“The October counts should give us a better picture on this fall's quail population.” The statewide quail index is down 33 percent from the previous 16-year average. “Late summer rains have provided some short-term relief from the drought in the northern portions of the state, but we just don’t know yet how much these rains helped,” Schoeling said.

Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation biologists have conducted the roadside surveys during both August and October for the past 17 years. Observers count the number of quail seen to provide an index of quail abundance and reproductive success.

There are 83 different 20-mile routes located throughout the state except for Tulsa and Oklahoma counties.

Running Nov. 11, 2006 - Feb.15, 2007, quail season is one of the most popular events in the state, drawing hunters from all over the nation to enjoy some of America's finest bird hunting.

For complete August roadside survey data, log onto www.wildlifedepartment.com. Results from the October roadside surveys will be available in early November.

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