Upland game birds can provide some of the most challenging hunting in North America. These include pheasants, quail, grouse, and turkeys. If you’re new to the sport, or just looking for a few more tips to help bag your limit this season, read on for the best advice from seasoned upland hunters. We’ll cover everything from finding good habitat to identifying the right bird to hunt. So whether you’re chasing ringnecks in South Dakota or ruffed grouse in Pennsylvania, these tips will help you put more birds in your bag.
Chukar
Chukar is an introduced species of upland game bird that is popular with hunters in the western United States. They are similar in size and appearance to quail but have a distinct black and white checkered pattern on their wings. Chukar can be found in open sagebrush country and rocky hillsides. When hunting chukar, look for areas where they are likely to find food and water. Good places to look include along fence lines, near cattle troughs, and near water sources such as streams or ponds.
Pheasant
Pheasants are one of the most popular upland game birds to hunt in North America. They are native to Europe and Asia but were introduced to North America in the 1800s for hunting. Pheasants are larger than quail and have a long tail that is often held upright when they are running. Pheasants can be found in open fields and grasslands. When hunting pheasants, look for areas with tall grass or weeds where they can hide. Good places to look include along fence lines, in ditches, and areas of dense vegetation.
Quail
Quail are small upland game birds that are popular with hunters in the southern United States. They have short tails and round bodies and are usually found in pairs or small groups. Quail can be found in open fields, woodlands, and brushy areas. When hunting quail, look for areas with dense vegetation where they can hide. Good places to look include thickets, under bushes, and tall grass.
Grouse
Grouse are medium-sized upland game birds that are popular with hunters in the northern United States. They have short tails and round bodies and are usually found in pairs or small groups. Grouse can be found in open fields, woodlands, and brushy areas. When hunting grouse, look for areas with dense vegetation where they can hide. Good places to look include thickets, under bushes, and tall grass.
Turkey
Turkeys are large upland game birds that are popular with hunters in the eastern United States. They have long legs and a long tail and are usually found in pairs or small groups. Turkeys can be found in open fields, woodlands, and brushy areas. When hunting turkeys, look for areas with dense vegetation where they can hide. Good places to look include thickets, under bushes, and tall grass.
