Conservation Department Publishes Quail Management Book

June 20, 2005

Ecology and Management of the Bobwhite Quail in Alabama is a new publication available from the Department of Conservation’s Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. The 47-page book was written by biologist Stan Stewart and contains color photos and illustrations throughout the publication.

Chapters in the quail book include Taxonomy, Description and Distribution, History and Status, Habits, Habitat Requirements, Habitat Management, Predation and Predator Management and Hunting. The publication is a result of many months of condensing current knowledge about bobwhites into a management guide.

Lack of habitat due to changes in agricultural and other land management practices has caused a population decline of the bobwhite quail. A landscape that once highly favored quail over large areas has now become an environment offering very few of the habitat types that quail need to flourish.

According to author Stan Stewart, this publication will assist landowners who want to see an increased number of quail on their property. “In recent years managers and researchers have revisited sound bobwhite biology and have made new discoveries about bobwhite behavior, ecology and management. Individuals who are applying this knowledge are currently experiencing unprecedented bobwhite management successes and population highs. The message is clear. Quail do not have to be just part of the past. They respond to management. Supply the birds a favorable environment and they usually increase rapidly.”

Those interested in reading Ecology and Management of the Bobwhite Quail in Alabama are encouraged to download it here. It can also be obtained by calling the Wildlife Section at 334-242-3469.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries.

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