The distribution and abundance of predators have changed over the years as habitats have changed. Medium-sized predators, including raccoons, foxes, and skunks, are now common throughout the Midwest and mid-south and regularly find and destroy quail and turkey nests and raid poultry producers. Larger predators such as bobcats and coyotes eat young quail, turkey, rabbits, squirrels as well as prey on fawns and young livestock.
As a result of habitat loss from changing farming practices and increased predator populations, wildlife production can be below what’s necessary to maintain populations at levels of your liking.
Operating and evaluating predator management sites in highly-targeted areas and removing predators, trappers have the potential to increase the percentage of nests that successfully hatch, and protect from livestock losses.
Predator management can also increase the survival of turkey poults, quail chicks, and fawns. Increased hatch rates and turkey, quail, rabbit, squirrel, and deer survival ultimately mean more hunting opportunity for you.
If you have noticed an increase in predator populations and a decrease in wildlife you enjoy, or are having a problem with beavers or otters in your ponds or waterways, please contact us to see if we can help.
