Chukar Counts "Encouraging"

After two seasons of chukar hunting that could best be described as grim, chukar hunters have reason to be encouraged. It appears that chukar numbers are on the rise. Surveying the highlands along Brownlee Reservoir on August 26, wildlife biologist Jake Powell counted nearly 900 chukars in the 12 square mile survey area. That translates to 73.7 chukars per square mile, double last year's dismal count of 37.8. "It's encouraging news," Powell noted. "We found 106 groups of chukars distributed across the entire survey area with an average group size of 8.3 birds." In contrast, the 2007 and 2008 surveys counted only 70 and 61 groups of birds, and 7.2 and 7.4 birds per group, respectively. While still below the 10-year average of 1,300 total birds and 108 birds per square mile, this year's count is the best since 2005 when a record 2,085 birds were counted. And Powell likes the trend. "We're headed in the right direction," Powell said. "If the weather cooperates, I'd anticipate seeing chukar numbers very near the 10-year average next year." While the Lucky Peak area was not surveyed for chukars this year, Powell expects bird numbers there to be trending upward as well. Clearwater Region biologists were not able to make aerial counts this year but ground observations indicate a rebound in the chukar populations there as well. Chukar hunters can take these numbers to the bank. "Our surveys have proven to be an accurate predictor of chukar hunting success," Powell said. "Year after year, hunter reports confirm our projections. Over time, that has bolstered our confidence in the accuracy of our survey technique." Chukar season opens statewide on Saturday, September 19 with a daily bag limit of eight birds. Consult the 2009 upland game rule book for additional information, or find it on the web at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.