Highlights
• Survey-wide pheasant indices are up nearly 20% from 2025, thanks to a mild winter and favorable spring conditions.
• Pheasant indices were highest in the West Central, Southwest, South Central, and Central
regions. Hunters will have good opportunities in these regions.
Summary
The 2026 survey-wide total pheasant index (89.9 birds/100 mi) was nearly 20% greater than in 2025
(75.2 birds/100 mi). A mild winter with little snow likely helped the overwinter survival of hens.
Additionally, spring and summer conditions were drier and warmer across most regions, creating better
conditions for nesting and brood-rearing.
Pheasant indices increased from 2025 in the West Central,
Central, and South Central regions by 74%, 25%, and 17%, respectively. In contrast, pheasant indices
decreased in the Southeast, East Central, and Southwest regions by 51%, 29%, and 15%, respectively.
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