MDC Releases Roadside Survey Results

The Missouri Department of Conservation says the roadside survey that is used to determine the potential pleasant and quail numbers for the upcoming season show better than expected counts for quail. This year’s stateside average roadside index is 1.8 quail per 30-mile route and .3 quail per route for pheasants. The quail figure was a little above last year’s survey. The quail figure is the same as last year.

The August survey included 110 routes around the state. The numbers are grouped into 8 geographic regions in Missouri. MDC Resource Scientist Beth Emmerich says the survey has been conducted since 1983 and provides the best way to track quail and pheasant populations on a statewide basis.

Missouri Department of Conservation Small Game Coordinator David Hoover says the Northeast Riverbanks and Western Prairie region showed the best numbers.

Hunting season for quail and pheasants is November 1st through January 15, 2020. The daily bag limit for quail is eight with a possession limit of 16. Daily bag limit for pheasant is two male pheasants with a possession limit of 4.

The Missouri Department of Conservation has more information online on their Hunting and Trapping Page.