We pointed 11 decent size coveys, and ran up several more this afternoon on a quail coalition managed pasture. We only had two bird dogs and picked up after our last point. We ran up a decent size covey on the way to the gate. It flew into a bush just a few yards from the gate. It was a setup. We let it be. We simply didn't need anymore bird work.

I've seen coveys this size over the years, some even later, all the way up into dewberry season which is early May in my area. When does the attrition start? I've never gotten a good answer. I'm sending this link to Jim Willis. He was over there burning the pasture a month ago.

Mr. Bill who did you speak with before on this topic? I have heard very mixed responses also. Some from state agencies and some from a university that conduct surveys and participate in reintroductions. I would like to know myself.

Eighty percent attrition has been thrown out for years. I simply don't see it.

I'm looking for a report I read last year that covered Georgia and Texas. I want to say the number was 60% but don't quote me on that. Very interesting read. Give me a bit and I will post the link.

I sent an e mail to Dr. Rollins at the quail research center asking that question. If he responds to my e mail I'll post his opinion. I've always heard 80% also. I figure his opinion would be closer to the truth.

Here is some entertainment. Still looking for the one from North Texas. Quail

Try this link if the first one does not work. Quail

Good read, thanks Cdog.

Dr. Rollins of the quail research center says 60-80% is probably correct. Little birds sure have it rough.