The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has announced that the sharp-tailed grouse hunting season will remain closed this year.
On Tuesday (August 6th), it was announced that, despite a sharp-tailed grouse population increase, the hunting season will remain closed due to concerns about the species’ long-term viability in the state.
This recommendation comes following the review of the spring 2024 survey data. 2024 will be the sixth year the season has been closed but, per state law, the bird will still retain its game species status.
Habitat restoration efforts in ecosystems where sharp-tailed grouse live have caused populations to grow each year since recovering from an all-time low number in 2021.
DNR staff hope and believe that the bird’s population will continue to grow in the future with the restoration efforts they and their partners are conducting.
