For those of you who love to hunt for pheasants in the fall, the hunting could be a bit tougher this year. According to statistics released by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa pheasant population is down around 13% this year.

Even with the decline in the number of birds, experts are predicting a hunting season much like last year when an estimated 270,000 rosters were harvested. That number could actually go up if more hunters take part.

What helps determine the pheasant population? Weather for one. Last winter and this spring were both average in terms of precipitation. That's important for the health of hens and their ability to raise their young.

Pheasant season in Iowa begins on October 29th and runs through January 10th.

 

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