The Lesser Prairie Chicken has been repetitioned for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act. KDWPT maitains its postition that federal protections are unwarrented and voluntary conservation actions under the state control are currently the best way to manage and protect the species.
Listing is the worst thing that can happen. I wish people would realize this. Hunting has zero to do with the Prairie Chickens plight - it's all habitat related - if they want to spend their dollars more wisely habitat projects and educating landowners in their prime areas would likely accomplish more.
I'd find lessers with my dog with this 400-500 yards away in the background
If I remember I'd kick them up in that exact pasture - now if they nested or not there was another question, however the plant made noise but surrounding the place was their ideal habitat. I'd wager with the good weather the past 2-3 years if I went down there tomorrow and ran the dog at the right time of day Id find some in the exact spot or other areas on this piece of ground.
Anyways frustrating - one of my favorite KS birds and favorites to pursue due to the challenge. Education and habitat -- listing the bird will be the death knell for it.
