Ruffed Grouse and Snowshoe Hare Populations on the Cloquet Experimental Forest, Minnesota

Abstract

Spring population estimates on Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus), based on the King census and deer drive methods for the years 1927 through 1953 (except 1937-9), show peaks in 1933, 1942, and 1951 although each peak was of 2 years duration. Estimates for the snowshoe hare (Lepus americana) from 1946 to 1953 and earlier less accurate data indicate high populations in 1929, 1935, 1943 and 1950. Predator populations have probably been low during these years and the habitat has been relatively stable.