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| Ruffed Grouse |
Spring continues to be a tease, and Mother Nature is presenting many challenges for wildlife.
Heavy rains over the weekend in southern parts of Wisconsin resulted in significant flooding and greening grass. The recent cold weather has quieted the frogs, although some hardy spring peepers are still calling. Other frogs which had been vocal are chorus frogs and wood frogs.
There are numerous migratory birds coming through Wisconsin now, including many waterfowl species that are enjoying high waters along the lower Wisconsin River. Nine loons were observed Sunday on Lake Eau Claire. It is likely they are waiting for the far north lakes to thaw before returning to that area. Another loon was observed at Devil’s Lake State Park last week.
Portions of the Sauk Prairie Recreation Area are now open to the public through May 27 for outdoor activities, including spring turkey hunting. In addition to turkey hunting visitors can trap, hike, bird watch, pick mushrooms and berries, bike open roads, study nature and take photographs. There will not be any fishing opportunities and horseback riding will not be allowed during this time period. The U.S. Army is opening many of the lands it still owns at the former Badger Army Ammunition Plant to public use during this time. Visit the DNR website and search keyword “Sauk Prairie Recreation Area” for property hours and maps.
Male ruffed grouse are approaching the peak of their annual breeding activities known as drumming. Males locate a downed log, tree or rock on which to display themselves. Typically the display platform is located in thick vertical cover which provides security from avian predators. The males attract females with a series of repeated, rapid wing strokes with 3-4 minutes between series. As their wings compress the air, they create a vacuum which results in a thumping noise. Wildlife biologists use this drumming behavior to create an index to the grouse population. Each year the same route is traveled and drumming grouse are counted. From year to year, population trends can be determined based on the number of drumming males heard per route. Quiet early mornings, with air temperatures between 25 and 40, are the best times to listen for drumming ruffed grouse.
Spring turkey hunting officially kicked off Wednesday, April 16. Last weekend was the youth turkey hunt and many successes were reported statewide. This week’s high water affected fishing across many parts of the state as waters filled with sediment and debris. Some of the northern inland lakes are still covered with ice but travel on these lakes is dangerous and not recommended.
The Wisconsin Conservation Congress held their annual county meetings Monday, April 14, along with the state’s annual fish and game rules hearings. The WCC is the only statutory body in the state in which citizens elect delegates to advise the Natural Resources Board and the Department of Natural Resources on how to responsibly manage Wisconsin's natural resources for present and future generations. This year over 7,000 constituents cast ballots at their local county meetings. For results of hearings, visit the DNR website and search keyword “Conservation Congress.”
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