Iowa DNR Asks Public to Report Prairie Chicken Sightings

DNR-News-Releases

Published March 17th, 2026

Detected March 17th, 2026

Summary

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is requesting public assistance in reporting sightings of prairie chickens across several Iowa counties. This initiative aims to gather data on the declining population to inform conservation efforts.

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What changed

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued a notice requesting the public to report any sightings of prairie chickens. This request is part of an effort to monitor the declining population of this species, which has been observed in Union, Clarke, Decatur, and Taylor counties, in addition to its historical locations in Ringgold County.

Individuals who observe prairie chickens are asked to report their sightings by calling 515-230-6599 or emailing vwmp@dnr.iowa.gov. This information will help the DNR track the birds and inform conservation strategies for the species.

What to do next

Report prairie chicken sightings to 515-230-6599 or vwmp@dnr.iowa.gov

Source document (simplified)

DNR asks for public to report prairie chicken sightings

Tuesday, March 17, 2026
News Release

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for prairie chickens this spring and Iowans can help.

Iowa’s prairie chicken population had resided in three locations in Ringgold County – two on or near the Kellerton Wildlife Area; the third on private land - but have been seen in Union, Clarke, Decatur and Taylor counties.

“Whether your checking on the cattle or working the fields, we’d like you to keep an eye out for prairie chickens and let us know if you see them,” said Stephanie Shepherd, wildlife biologist with the Iowa DNR’s diversity program.

Prairie chicken sightings can be reported by calling 515-230-6599 or emailed to vwmp@dnr.iowa.gov.

“There’s a concern for this population,” Shepherd said. “Our numbers are down, not just here, but across the border in Missouri, and we want to keep tabs on any birds that we missed as part of our previous surveys.”