(Lewis) Pheasant Nesting appears to be similar to 2025. John Lorenzen, appearing on the KSOM DNR Report, says there is good news, given that last year’s numbers reached a 20-year high. He says the prediction is based on 50 years of weather data and roadside pheasant counts.
Statewide snowfall was considered average. Southwest Iowa was below normal, which is what you want for pheasant survival.
Lorenzen says dry, warm springs are also conducive to positive nesting-season outcomes. Lorenzen says March through May ranked as the seventh-warmest spring on record. And the 45th wettest. He says that, locally, the DNR observes differences in Pheasant abundance.
Places to the south received heavy storms, resulting in flooding. In those areas, Lorenzen would expect to see fewer pheasants than in local areas not affected by those storms.
Lorenzen says the main roadside survey provides the DNR with more information in August.
