Grouse Population Explosion?

[freedan]

A question for the wildlife biologists and hunters out there. Are we currently at the apex of the grouse population cycle? Skiing I have had them erupting from their snow holes from under the tips of my skis, between my legs, and one even hit me in the butt. I have never encountered so many grouse. I have observed this on the Tug Hill, central Adks., S. Adks. and the high peaks. I have literally almost run into several on a single day.

Does this mean a big swing the other way is ready to happen due to disease or a late spring this year? Just interested, thanks.

Also, if anyone is really interested for research purposes I can provide numbers and locations.

 

[Kevin Rooney]

Grouse/partridge do have cyclical population swings. Much has to do with the weather in April - a warm, dry April means fewer chicks die.

Pennsylvania F&G has done lots of research on grouse and deer populations. I read an article several years ago which summarized the impact hunters have on the ruffed grouse population, and much to their surprise - hunters have neglible impact on their numbers.

 

[RTSpoons]

Interesting question

I was on Hoffman mountain back in November. It seemed like every 15 minutes or so one of those birds would scare me as they came out of no where.

I have never encounter so many in one area.

 

[Viewseeker]

I ran into many last fall heading to allen on the trail in the hardwoods. tried taking pic of one but without camera zoom that little bugger would not sit still for his mug shot.