In this episode, Jon Teater (Whitetail Landscapes) and Kyle Hedges (Land and Legacy) discuss building a better habitat for quail and management strategies to support the betterment of the species. Kyle explains the problems with forest, fields and farming management or the lack thereof that have impacted quail and limited the bird’s expansion and existence. Kyle explains the land use changes and farm use that have changed the landscape
Kyle discusses quail ecology and how this short-lived animal reproduces and sustains itself throughout the year. Kyle explains when the habitat is right, reproduction opportunities increase. Kyle explains the yearly life cycle, production, brooding periods, and home ranges. Kyle and Jon discuss weather impacts on quail and turkeys, and how dew can be problematic to survival. Kyle discusses problems with heat intensity, cold conditions, and overwinter survival.
Kyle explains what quail prefer to eat and how their diets transition from bugs to seeds. Kyle explains why diversity is critical to seed sources. Kyle details the most critical habitat features and why quail rarely step foot in forest. Kyle explains the importance of grasslands, disturbance, and bare ground. Kyle and Jon discuss the best vegetation types associated with Pine and Oak Savanna areas. Kyle provides specific examples of habitat practices that create ideal conditions for quail.
Kyle explains how to develop a property and create conditions that support high levels of breeding and interaction amongst quail. Kyle provides specific plant species that are helpful for quail to benefit from that support insect attractors and physical protections. Kyle explains the importance of fire and how to ensure the intervals align with better habitat for quail. Kyle discusses predators versus habitat and the importance of understanding where time is best spent.
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