UNDATED – Good news for pheasant hunters in Minnesota, there are more birds in almost every region of the state.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says the annual roadside survey shows an 18% increase in pheasants from last year and a similar percentage above the 10-year average.
The statewide pheasant index this year was 48 birds per 100 miles traveled.
DNR officials say every region saw an increase in pheasant numbers except the southwest, which saw an 8% drop.
Weather and habitat are the primary influences on Minnesota pheasant population trends, and fine spring weather has produced favorable nesting conditions.
Minnesota pheasant hunting season opens on Saturday, October 15.
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