An annual survey of Iowa’s pheasant population was launched this week, and will continue through the middle of this month. Todd Bogenschutz coordinates the survey for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. He suggests this could end up being the highest statewide pheasant count since 2006.

 

Much of the state had very little snowfall this past winter, which likely resulted in good hen survival.

 

 

The roadside pheasant population survey runs for 15 days. Data is collected from 208 30-mile survey routes around the state. In addition to pheasants, the survey also collects information on cottontail rabbits, jack rabbits, quail and Hungarian partridge. Results of the survey will be released in early-to-mid September.