Hawks and Owls

[Bowjo]

Will they ever be managed by the ODNR?It seems like their populations are growing every year.What do you guys think?

[DigDoug]

I've seen about the same number as the past. No I don't think the DNR should manage them - let nature take its course. I'd like to see more numbers of birds around, but the key is habitat development, not predator reduction.

[DougG]

i too have noticed a increase in the number of hawks and owls over the past decade...along with a decline in the number of rabbit seen...i think it is pretty much a direct link that hawks and owls are getting more and more of the rabbit population...i really think something should be done about some of the population of hawks

just my $.02

[M.Magis]

Cats have a much bigger impact on rabbits than hawks and owls. That's what needs taken care of. There's not nearly enough predatory birds that they need managed. Besides that, it's not a state issue. They're federally protected and most likely always will be.

[Lance]

I think there are really two primary reasons we're seeing more hawks over the past 10 years. Continous improvement from the DDT ban years ago and I think more hawks are stopping to winter here vs. going further south due to a few milder winters. That being said I still agree with Dig-Doug to a large extent. Habitat IS they key. If there's enough substantial ground cover their exposure to predators is minimized and your breeding population survives.

[sycamoreredneck]

Once again Profesor Lance gives us his wonderful insight on all things outdoors!!!

LANCE FOR PREZ 2008!!!!

:D

How's the fall been treatin ya buddy??

[Lance]

LOL!!!!! PLEEEASE!!!!!!


Things have been ok but busy. Balancing time between my family, looking for a better job,tyin lots of flies, working dogs, bow hunting... It's all good though!

[sycamoreredneck]

Glad to hear it Ol' Buddy!!!

[Ben B]

I love to see hawks on the lands I hunt, because it means the game is there! Predators think alike!