Chomping at the bit

[Steve Hodges]

I have heard just the opposite on the grouse numbers in Maine for this fall. From what I have read the grouse suffered severe winter kill this past winter and the numbers will be down. I suppose a guide may not want this to be known, as it will be bad for business.

[Tenth Legion]

Last winter was severe in Maine and a telemetry study on Maine grouse showed heavy losses. Nesting and brood rearing conditions were excellent for Maine's ground nesting birds. My contribution to the wild turkey August brood survey yielded 68 sightings; 118 toms, 130 hens and 285 poults for 533 total birds. In the better habitat numbers will be strong for turkey, grouse and woodcock. Populations may be spotty in marginal habitat. We expect excellent hunting, and yes, I am a guide, just one who is not trying to sell a hunt;-)