2 years, 6 months ago
Is the Ruffed Grouse population in northern Wisconsin lower than normal?
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M$1 Answer
I've found conflicting data about how the numbers are fluctuating ( taking into account the seasonal changes )
This 2008 article says the numbers are stable if not increasing:
/quote/
Wisconsin –
Statewide ruffed grouse drumming counts increased 7 % over 2007 levels. The northern region of Wisconsin, which supports the bulk of the ruffed grouse habitat in the state, showed a 12% increase in drumming activity from 2007. Like Michigan, this is the third consecutive year the state’s ruffed grouse population has increased as it climbs toward its cyclic peak.
/unquote/
http://www.ruffedgrouseminnesota.com/news/archive01_2009.html
This article says the Breeding Bird Survey results up to 2005 show a steady decline in habitat and associated population of brooding grouse.
/quote/
Across the state Ruffed Grouse populations continue to decline with the last cyclic peak in 1999 much lower than those of the previous three cycles (Dhuey 2005).
/unquote/
http://www.wisconsinbirds.org/plan/species/rugr.htm
The very latest article in 2009 states that numbers could be on the rise again! This is from a hunter who reported more sightings even though the conservationists say they are declining
http://host.madison.com/sports/recreation/outdoors/article_95007e06-b35c-11de-b128-001cc4c03286.html
http://www.1000birds.com/images/Ruffed-Grouse17578.jpg
This 2008 article says the numbers are stable if not increasing:
/quote/
Wisconsin –
Statewide ruffed grouse drumming counts increased 7 % over 2007 levels. The northern region of Wisconsin, which supports the bulk of the ruffed grouse habitat in the state, showed a 12% increase in drumming activity from 2007. Like Michigan, this is the third consecutive year the state’s ruffed grouse population has increased as it climbs toward its cyclic peak.
/unquote/
http://www.ruffedgrouseminnesota.com/news/archive01_2009.html
This article says the Breeding Bird Survey results up to 2005 show a steady decline in habitat and associated population of brooding grouse.
/quote/
Across the state Ruffed Grouse populations continue to decline with the last cyclic peak in 1999 much lower than those of the previous three cycles (Dhuey 2005).
/unquote/
http://www.wisconsinbirds.org/plan/species/rugr.htm
The very latest article in 2009 states that numbers could be on the rise again! This is from a hunter who reported more sightings even though the conservationists say they are declining
http://host.madison.com/sports/recreation/outdoors/article_95007e06-b35c-11de-b128-001cc4c03286.html
You can leave an optional "tip" with Mahalo's virtual currency, Mahalo Dollars. If you are asking a difficult question that might require some research, or if you'd like a wide variety of feedback, a higher tip often leads to more answers to your question.
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