Bird Research: Stocking Evaluation of F1 Ring-necked Pheasants

Objectives of this research include: evaluate the feasibility of using F1 releases to establish or re-establish viable populations of ring-necked pheasants on suitable sites.

Background

There are sites in southern Wisconsin, despite seemingly excellent habitat, pheasants either do not exist or are in very low numbers. Some biologists speculated that extensive stocking of game farm pheasants since the 1940´s has altered the genetic make-up of our free ranging pheasants so they can not survive even in good habitat. F1 pheasants from wild Iowa and China parent stock have been released on 24 different sites in southern Wisconsin to improve these pheasant populations. A need exists to determine if this stocking program of F1 pheasants is improving pheasant populations in these areas.

This study will document establishment and expansion of pheasant populations following stocking in apparently suitable habitat with potential to support a population. If F1 releases prove successful, this procedure could be used to restore and expand pheasant range and recreational opportunity. If it is not successful, many thousands of dollars could be saved and directed to other badly needed wildlife management activities.

For more information on this topic, please contact:
Wildlife Web Mail