MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources this week announced the annual spring drumming survey of ruffed grouse showed below-average counts while the spring waterfowl breeding survey indicates good numbers and excellent habitat conditions.
DNR wildlife biologists reported a 5% decrease statewide in ruffed grouse drumming activity from 2021.
"These results are not surprising. Ruffed grouse typically follow a 10-year population cycle," said Brian Dhuey, DNR wildlife surveys specialist. "While we don't have data for 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, we know that cycles usually peak in years ending in 9, 0 or 1. We're likely going to see that abundance begin to wane in the coming years as we enter the down phase of the cycle."
