Quail Are Making A Comeback In Oklahoma

Forty years ago, Southwest Oklahoma was a hunters paradise for all things upland fowl. Quail, prairie chicken, grouse, and pheasant were once widespread throughout much of the Sooner State. Skip forward to the 90's, for the most part, they'd almost all disappeared.

Some blame the agriculture practices that began to increase herbicide usage in the 70's and 80's, weeding out much of these birds natural weedy/seedy foods. Others blame the introduction of the whitetail deer. That argument being the deer brought new predators with them... aka - cougars, bobcats, coyotes, etc... that also seemed to feast on our upland populations. Logic might say it's a combination and perfect storm of the two.

One thing is for sure, quail are making a huge comeback in Oklahoma. While still not as plentiful in our Southwestern part of the state, Northwestern Oklahoma is alive with the sound of coveys. If you're up for the challenge, there are hundreds of outfitters that can put you on the trail.