Texas quail hunters have reason to look forward to Nov. 1. The latest Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) roadside survey shows encouraging numbers for both bobwhite and scaled quail, thanks to a year marked by timely rainfall and healthy habitat conditions across much of the state.
Patrick Schutz, TPWD’s Upland Game Bird Program Leader, says biologists logged more than 3,300 miles during August’s annual survey — and what they found points to another quality season. “Overall, the numbers were once again in good shape,” Schutz noted, adding that South Texas and the Trans‑Pecos continue to stand out as the state’s strongest quail regions.
Bobwhite Quail: A Season Shaped by Rainfall and Resilient Habitat
Bobwhite populations varied by ecoregion, reflecting the patchwork of weather patterns and habitat conditions Texas experienced this year. Even with those fluctuations, most regions posted above‑average counts compared to the 15‑year mean — a promising sign for hunters.
North Texas offers several public hunting opportunities, including Matador WMA, Gene Howe WMA, and the newer Teacup Mountain WMA, an 11,091‑acre property managed for a diverse suite of wildlife. While Rolling Plains numbers dipped slightly from last year, the region still offers solid prospects for hunters seeking bobwhites.
In South Texas, biologists recorded an average of 10.17 bobwhites per route — above the long‑term average of 9.92. Well‑timed rains and strong habitat conditions fueled multiple successful hatches, and hunters can look to Chaparral and James E. Daughtrey WMAs for reliable public access.
Schutz says the team expected summer’s hot, dry stretch to suppress numbers, but the survey results tell a more encouraging story. He hopes seasoned hunters will introduce newcomers to the excitement of a covey rise — one of upland hunting’s most memorable moments.
Scaled Quail: A Standout Year in the West
Scaled quail continue their upward trend statewide, with most ecoregions surpassing their 15‑year averages. The Trans‑Pecos and Edwards Plateau benefited from late‑spring rains and excellent habitat conditions, producing multiple broods and strong survey counts.
The Edwards Plateau saw the most dramatic increase: 29.88 scaled quail per route, more than double last year’s 14.00 and far above the long‑term mean of 8.38. Black Gap and Elephant Mountain WMAs are expected to offer excellent opportunities for hunters willing to put in the miles.
“Scaled quail have taken full advantage of the quality habitat conditions and rainfall out west,” Schutz said. “This should provide ample opportunities this season for those hunters willing to put in a few miles chasing these exceptional birds.”
What Hunters Need to Know
TPWD’s quail index survey — conducted annually since 1978 — provides a regional snapshot of bobwhite and scaled quail populations. Local conditions can vary, so hunters seeking county‑specific outlooks should contact their regional TPWD wildlife biologist.
Hunters using Texas Public Hunting Lands must carry an Annual Public Hunting Permit and review regulations in the Public Hunting Lands Map Booklet. On‑site registration can be completed electronically through the Texas Hunt & Fish app.
With strong survey numbers, favorable habitat conditions, and a statewide tradition of upland hunting, Texas quail season is poised to deliver another memorable year in the field.
