Forecast: Kansas statewide spring population densities increased for the third year in a row. Summer population densities also increased for the third year in a row, as roadside brood surveys showed a 45 percent increase compared to 2015, according to small game specialist Jeff Prendergast with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. Densities in all regions were either improved or remained relatively good this year, though south-central Kansas experienced the most success and highest population boost.
While harvest numbers last year remained depressed due to lack of hunter participation, success rates were well above average. This year’s statewide production was good and above the 5-year average, and even better in the western half of the state, according to Prendergast.
“Interestingly, the same drought that caused population crashes across the west can be credited for the excellent quail habitat observed in the recovery,” Prendergast said. “Precipitation on the stressed landscape has resulted in weedy grasslands ideal for quail production, providing both abundant insects and somewhat open grasslands.” However, heavy and poorly timed rainfalls further east in the state has negatively affected production in some localized areas.
In the southwest, scaled quail greatly increased in the proportion of observations this year, particularly along the Arkansas River. Eastern regions have lower densities than western regions, but hunters familiar with this area should expect to find above average densities, Prendergast believes. “Hunting should be good this year throughout the state,” he said.
Season Dates: November 12, 2016 through January 31, 2017
Daily Bag Limit: 8, single species or in combination (bobwhite and scaled quail)
Possession Limit: 32, single species or in combination (bobwhite and scaled quail)
Helpful Links: