Iowa’s pheasant population is forecast to be similar to last year, when it reached a 20-year high, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. 

That forecast is based on a model using 50 years of weather data and roadside pheasant counts to predict hen survival and nesting success. 

This season, statewide snowfall was considered average, with western and southern regions recording below-normal snowfall, and portions of the east central, central, and northeastern regions showing slightly above-average snowfall. April temperatures and rainfall were both above average, while May values were near normal.

The Iowa DNR conducts its annual upland population survey each August, which is the best indicator of what populations will be this fall. Last year’s pheasant population was 28 pheasants per route, which indicated a harvest of 600,000 – 700,000 roosters for that fall.