The DNR says pheasant numbers in the state have increased 18 percent from last year, and have exceeded the 10-year average by a similar amount.
The DNR says the data is from its annual roadside pheasant survey, with 48 birds seen per 100 miles of roads traveled.
Compared to 2021, all regions saw an increase in pheasant numbers except the southwest, which saw an 8 percent decrease.
Weather and habitat are the main influences on Minnesota’s pheasant population trends.
Numbers are expected to be strong for the pheasant hunting season, which opens in mid-October.
