17 April 2005, 08:57
Idaho RonIdaho Sage grouse counts
I am conducting sage grouse counts again this year. This will be my 7th year working with sage grouse. So far this year we are getting a little rain and snow. This will give us a good bug crop and the grass is growing. I have not looked at long term weather but if the rain tapers off a little and is dry for the hatch I think this year will be better than last for chukar and sage grouse in southern Idaho. Everything looks good so far. Here are a few pictures from 5-15-05.
I took Gretta to help me locate where the "lost" leks were. Some times the leks will relocate from year to year. Gretta helped me locate several hens. I kick her out and she runs in front of the truck. In this picture she is pointing a hen.
Forgive the pictures. I was about 100 yards away and I used my spotting scope held up to my camera. Ron
Those are some great photos. Thanks for the work you do on behalf of the birds! I went to college in Idaho and it was a great state for bird hunting. I may consider returning at retirement time so Ican hunt the great variety of upland birds.
20 April 2005, 18:18
DutchHey Ron, good work!
How's that new sharptail population doing your way? Do you know? Wondering if we might get a season one of these days (and keep you guys on that side of the state

. Dutch.
21 April 2005, 09:34
Idaho RonI don't think we will be having a season any time soon. I might have to see if I can shoot every sharptail on the east side of the state! Ron