Grouse populations rebound, providing hunters with good opportunity

Michigan's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimates the state's ruffed grouse population has rebounded to approximately 640,000 birds, providing hunters good opportunity for a successful hunt this fall.

The DNR says grouse populations are cyclical and typically follow a 10-year upward trend. The last upward trend was in 2006, when the population reached 1.1 million birds.

"Ruffed grouse are one of my favorite species to hunt," said Gary lady, upland bird specialist with the DNR. "There's nothing quite like walking through a hardwood forest and flushing a covey of ruffed grouse."

Grouse populations are measured each year by complete aerial surveys in May and June. The number of grouse counted per mile provides a relative index of abundance that is used to calculate population size.

"The rebound in the ruffed grouse population is great news for Michigan's hunting tradition," said DNRE Director Keith Creagh. "I encourage everyone who enjoys the sport of hunting to get out and participate this fall."

Forest grouse adapt well to changing climate

Grouse, a family of birds that live in forested habitats around the world, are well adapted to changing climates. Grouse can thrive in a variety of climates, from temperate to subarctic, making them an important part of ecosystems in many regions.

One forest grouse, the ruffed grouse, is found in North America. Ruffed grouse are well-adapted to Changes in temperature and habitat fragmentation. In fact, their range has actually expanded northward in recent years as the climate has warmed.

Ruffed grouse have thick feathers that help keep them warm in cold weather and camouflage them in their forested habitat. They also have strong legs that allow them to walk through deep snow. Ruffed grouse eat a variety of things, including leaves, buds, insects, and berries.

The Canada lynx is another animal that has benefited from the changing climate. The Canada lynx is a wild cat that lives in boreal forests across Canada and Alaska. The Canada lynx is well-adapted to cold weather and relies on snowshoe hares for food.

As the climate has warmed, the range of the Canada lynx has expanded northward. In fact, the Canada lynx was recently removed from the endangered species list because its population has rebounded due to the changing climate.

Grouse populations stable, despite hunting pressure

According to a recent study, grouse populations are stable in the face of hunting pressure.

The study, which was published in the journal "Science Advances," used data from across North America to assess the impact of hunting on grouse populations. The results showed that while hunting does have an effect on population size, it is not enough to cause a decline in overall numbers.

This is good news for grouse hunters, who can continue to enjoy this popular form of hunting without worrying about its impact on the species. It is also good news for the environment, as healthy grouse populations are an important part of maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

So far, the study has been met with mixed reactions. Some people are delighted to learn that grouse populations are holding steady despite hunting pressure, while others argue that the study paints too rosy a picture and does not take into account all the potential risks to grouse populations.

Whatever your opinion may be, one thing is clear: this study has sparked renewed interest in grouse hunting, and is sure to generate plenty of discussion among hunters and non-hunters alike.

Ring-necked pheasant numbers down, grouse up

According to the Minnesota DNR, ring-necked pheasant numbers are down statewide this year, while grouse populations are up.

The DNR's annual survey of ring-necked pheasants found a population density of only 3.1 birds per square mile, down from 5.5 birds per square mile in 2016. The number of hens with broods was also down statewide, as was the average brood size.

Grouse populations, on the other hand, appear to be on the rise. The DNR's grouse survey found a population density of 11.9 birds per square mile, up from 8.4 birds per square mile in 2016.

What's causing the decline in pheasant numbers? There's no definitive answer, but one likely factor is the extreme cold and extended winter weather that much of Minnesota experienced this year. Heavy snow cover can make it difficult for pheasants to find food and shelter, and can also reduce their reproductive success.

Another possible factor is habitat loss or degradation due to development or land management practices such as grazing or mowing. Pheasant populations have been declining in many states across the Midwest in recent years, so it's not just a Minnesota phenomenon.

Nonetheless, the news is good for grouse hunters this year. If you're looking to bag a ruffed grouse this fall, your best bet is to head north to the Arrowhead region or into northern Wisconsin.