Date: 9/4/08
Contact: C. Douglas Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127, ext. 3500

CHUKAR SEASON FORECAST

A storm system that dropped rain over much of northern Nevada during the Memorial weekend may very well have saved the 2008 chukar hunting season, at least in that part of the state. Prior to the storm’s arrival, Nevada Department of Wildlife biologists were concerned the 2008 season might very well be the most dismal on record.

“This season had the potential of being much worse if not for those late storms, that was the key,” said NDOW upland game biologist Shawn Espinosa.

Prior to the storm, dry conditions dominated much of the state through the months of March, April and most of May. Those months are a critical time for chukar to prepare for the nesting season and biologists were concerned the birds would not have the body condition to begin the nesting season. The rains from this holiday storm, however, “led to a flush of native grasses and forbs that likely provided chukar with enough food resources to produce nests and have broods with a good number of chicks,” notes the NDOW Chukar Hunting Forecast for the 2008-2009 season.

“The big difference this year is the young birds. Last year the more experienced adult birds were getting up when hunters were still 100 yards away. Hunters were having a hard time getting anywhere near the birds. This year, they should have a lot more luck getting up on the birds,” adds Espinosa.

According to the report, the upcoming “chukar hunting season is expected to be fair to good for most of Nevada with some areas providing excellent hunting. Unlike last season, coveys will be composed of a good number of young birds. This will allow the hunter to approach within shotgun range for at least the first half of the season.” That, of course, doesn’t mean that hunters won’t have to do some walking. That just comes with the territory.

The reports states results show that Pershing County and portions of Washoe County have high densities of chukar while Humboldt, Lander and Elko Counties show average to below average numbers.

Chukar season runs from Oct. 11, 2008 – Feb. 1, 2009 statewide. The hunt is open to nonresidents with shooting hours from sunrise to sunset.

The Chukar Hunting Forecast is available online at www.ndow.org or at NDOW offices.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.