Quail survey results available now

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Results from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s October roadside quail counts are in, and although sportsmen and landowners have reported seeing more quail than they have in recent years, the survey still shows a decrease in quail numbers compared to last year and also compared to the long-term average. However, the survey does show an increase in late hatch young birds for the second year in a row.

This summer’s weather has for the most part been favorable for quail reproduction, and reports from landowners and biologists in the field indicate that quail populations are improving across the state from a near record low population in 2007.

“The quail population is still apparently in recovery mode from the drought experienced in 2006,” said Mike O’Meilia, wildlife research supervisor for the Wildlife Department. “In addition, above average summer rainfall in 2007 and 2008 has contributed to production of dense vegetation along roadsides, which may be negatively influencing quail observation rates on survey routes.”

This is the 19th year of roadside surveys, and the statewide index decreased 61 percent from the previous 18-year average. The 2008 statewide index decreased 20 percent from the 2007 index.  Survey observations of quail in north-central, northeast, southwest and south-central regions had an average increase of 13 percent from last year’s survey. With last year’s near record low quail survey numbers, a rebound to near the long-term average was unlikely.

The northwest region survey was expected to show increased numbers of quail observed.  However, because panhandle survey routes were low due to extreme drought conditions for most of the summer, the overall northwest region average declined from last year’s survey results.

“The best way to find out just how well the birds are doing in your particular area is to get out there and enjoy the quail season this year,” O’Meilia said.

Quail season opens Nov. 8 and runs through Feb. 15. Though quail hunting offers a challenge to sportsmen of any skill level, even youngsters can enjoy a day in the field with a mentor, family member or friend and a good bird dog.

To hunt quail in Oklahoma, sportsmen must possess a hunting license and a fishing and hunting legacy permit, or proof of exemption. The daily limit for quail is 10 birds a day, 20 in possession after the first day.

The Wildlife Department has conducted annual roadside surveys in August and October since 1990 to index quail populations across Oklahoma. Department employees run 83 routes that are 20-mile each in all counties except Oklahoma and Tulsa. Some larger counties like Beaver, Ellis, Le Flore, McCurtain, Osage, Pittsburg, Pushmataha, and Roger Mills have two routes. Observers count the number of quail observed and classify the size of young birds in broods to provide an index of quail abundance (number seen/20 mile route) and reproductive success.  This report combines the August and October surveys to provide a composite index of quail abundance. The survey provides an index of annual population fluctuations.

To see the full results of the October roadside quail count survey, or for more information about quail hunting in Oklahoma, log on to wildlifedepartment.com.

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