Ecology, population dynamics and management of the bobwhite quail, Colinus virginianus marilandicus (L.), in Massachusetts

Abstract

This investigation was conducted to determine the ecology and dynamics of Massachusetts quail populations, and to interpret the findings in terms of practical management of the resource.

Weight data collected during the course of the study support the thesis that the northeastern coastal quail population may be separated, subspecifically.

Declines in quail populations in Massachusetts during the past century probably resulted from a deterioration in habitable range. Present populations are apparently limited to areas of farming activity. Coastal populations are probably less dependent on a strictly agricultural environment than inland populations. No statistically significant change in quail populations was observed between 1952 and 1956, based on whistle-count census data. A probable increase in 1954 was detected, however, in both the whistle-count census and in age composition data.

An analysis of 772 hatching dates for three years indicated that early and successful nesting occurred in Massachusetts quail populations.

Weight studies showed that all sex and age segments of the quail population were heaviest during early January, and lightest in April. No weight difference between sexes was observed. Adults were significantly heavier than juveniles throughout the winter. but weight differences between the age segments decreased as winter progressed.

Comparisons of spring and fall movement among individual quail indicated that spring movement was greater than in the fall.

A 30 per cent increase in six months was observed for the total population of a 1790-acre area that was intensively managed using annual grains. A significant increase occurred simultaneously in the percentage of juveniles in the same population.

Data collected from an expanding insular quail population indicated that summer gains were inversely related to spring population densities, and that a decrease in the percentage of juveniles might be attributed to post-nesting mortality. The insular population was maintained using “bucket-type" feeders at a cost of $4.00 per additional bird.

Plantings of perennial shrub lespedezas apparently were of limited value to quail. Likewise, predator control and refuge establishment were thought to be ineffective techniques. The use of narrow-strip annual grain plantings with maximum edge in areas reverting to non-productive habitat apparently provides the most economical ($2.50 per bird) and practical means of increasing quail populations.

Except in very special cases, the artificial propagation and release of quail was found to be unwise.

Studies of hunting pressure and total kill suggest that effort should be directed to liberalize hunting restrictions if greater utilization of the resource is to be realized.