RPQRR Roadside Quail Counts
by Mitchell Riggs
The Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch conducted annual roadside quail surveys during the first three weeks of September.
We have two survey routes—one on the east side of the ranch and one on the west side—each route is surveyed eight times, both in the morning and evening.
Across the three-week period, we observed a total of 1,636 birds, averaging 10.22 birds per mile. This is slightly below last year’s 11.7 birds per mile, but still significantly higher than our counts from 2018 through 2023.
Anecdotally, we believe quail numbers may actually be higher than last year. The increased vegetation likely reduced visibility and kept us from observing as many birds as are truly present. While this may not shape up to be a year like the record-setting 2016 season, we expect results to be very similar to last year, with some pockets of excellent bird numbers around the state. We have even received reports of quail sightings inside Abilene, Knox City and Midland city limits—always a positive sign when birds are seen in urban areas.
One concern is the recent re-emergence of drought conditions across parts of South Texas and the Rolling Plains. The Research Ranch recorded just 1.2 inches of rain in September 2025, compared to 4.2 inches in September 2024. If drought persists, quail numbers could decline heading into hunting season.
Overall, much of the state should see good quail numbers this year, with some regions experiencing truly excellent conditions. As we move into fall, rainfall and temperatures will be key factors to watch. Our upcoming helicopter surveys and trapping efforts will give us an even clearer picture of how the population is holding up.
