Upland bird hunting is an interest and hobby of many throughout the US with an especially large concentration here in the Midwest. Because of this as well as the fact that small game season is right around the corner, we wanted to take a look at some of the most popular upland birds to hunt in our area. Pheasants, grouse, quail, and turkeys top the lists of many, each offering a different experience, whether that is their behavior, the habitat they live in, or the strategies needed to track and hunt. Gaining an understanding of these differences can help enhance both your appreciation for them as well as how you approach hunting this upcoming season.

Grouse are a slightly chunky, medium-sized bird that are typically found in forested areas. The most popular species in the Midwest is the ruffed grouse. They are known for their sound which they make when trying to attract a female called drumming. It is a thumping sound that starts out slow then speeds up. They are also known for their primarily gray and brown plumage which helps them blend in extremely well to their woodland environment.

Grouse are typically ground-dwellers so when hunting them it typically involves walking through wooded areas trying to flush them from their hiding places. They are very well known for their explosive and sudden flight when disturbed which can startle even the most experienced hunters. This makes grouse hunting a reflexive and fast-paced adventure. Hunting grouse with a dog can be extremely helpful in locating, flushing, and retrieving them. They are challenging targets as they fly in zigzag patterns and are quite wily. 

Quail are small birds that are social and travel in groups called coveys that are found in both brushy areas and open grasslands. The most common species in Minnesota is the bobwhite quail. They are one of the most challenging birds to hunt due to their small size and fast, erratic flight which requires precision and quick reflexes.

When hunting for quail it is typically done in groups with bird dogs that are trained to flush them from cover. Quail usually stick together in their coveys so when they are startled they explode into flight in many different directions which makes it hard to pick one singular target. 

Much larger than the other birds mentioned above, they are a success story coming from near extinction in the early 1900s to a thriving population now. Eastern wild turkeys are the most common species here in Minnesota as well as North America. They are highly social birds that travel in flocks. They spend the majority of their time on the ground but are capable of short flights and roost in trees at night. They have very keen eyesight and the ability to run quite fast. Male turkeys, called toms, are known for their distinctive “gobble”. 

Hunting for turkeys is very different from hunting most other upland birds. It takes a bit more planning and patience as you typically sit in a blind and try to lure in turkeys with calls that mimic the sound of female turkeys, known as hens. Camouflage is critical as turkeys have great eyesight and can spot movement from far away. 

Each of these birds offer a unique hunting experience from the heart pumping jumpscare of grouse to the planning to get a turkey, upland bird hunting is a tradition that combines skill, patience and a deep found respect and connection to the land. The challenge and reward of bird hunting is seldom replicated elsewhere and is why it is a favorite among hunters. 

If you are looking to get outfitted heading into another season check out some of our favorite offerings.