Forecast: Timely rainfall and milder temperatures this spring have sparked excitement and anticipation not seen in years about the prospects for a rebound of bobwhite quail in Oklahoma, according to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC). “We’re seeing better conditions now than we’ve seen in the past two and a half years,” said Scott Cox, ODWC upland game biologist. “We’re optimistic that we’re looking at a good nesting season.”
Bobwhite quail populations are related to favorable weather and good habitat. Even so, research has shown that quail mortality is generally about 80 percent each year. Since the bobwhite quail has an average lifespan of only seven to 10 months, Cox says hunting does not affect the overall population of the species.
Laura McIver, Oklahoma’s regional representative for Quail Forever, says the reports of better quail conditions are exciting. “The weather is very important for quail. When Mother Nature plays nice, then they can rebound like that,” she says.
Researchers at the Packsaddle and Beaver River Wildlife Management Areas in northwestern Oklahoma have also said that quail require three consecutive spring seasons with favorable conditions to achieve a robust population boost. This spring appears to be the second such season with good conditions. Only time will tell whether good conditions for a third year will create the population rebound that many hunters have been hoping for in the past several decades.
Season Dates: November 8, 2014 through February 15, 2015
Daily Bag Limit: 10
Possession Limit: 20 (after first day of the season)
Field Notes: The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife suggests contacting area managers for detailed information on locations to pursue quail.
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