There is some grumbling amongst the quail hunting fraternity. The thoughts are that this should be a good year for Gambels and scaled quail. However, hunters in S.E. Arizona are not seeing that in the field. The same holds true with Mearns quail and, of course, there are a lot of theories out there on why. Biologically speaking, the stars aligned for what should be a banner year for Gambels and scaled quail and, given the monsoon that we witnessed, a projected recovery on Mearns quail.
What’s going on?
Personally, I think quail numbers are better than what’s being reported. I have had some good days seeing desert quail and a few decent days on Mearns. I have also seen Mearns coveys outside of their prescribed habitats.
Are the quail numbers really down? Or is it a case of the lack of humidity causing scenting conditions to be tough, making it at times almost impossible for the dogs to smell and then point birds?
Yesterday we ventured out into an area that has produced lots of quail contacts this season. This spot is home to numerous Gambels and scaled quail coveys with a few Mearns coveys thrown in.
The coveys ran up and over the ridges with Andy, myself and dogs in hot pursuit. Andy got a few shots off, but for the most part the quail won as the dogs were unable to stay connected and relocate with the running coveys.
Time will tell, as each day we get closer to rain. Here’s hoping that when that happens we all have great days afield and the cloud of dust that looms over top of our bird dogs goes away. In the meantime, keep at it. After all, it’s hunting and nothing is guaranteed.
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