The Wyoming Game and Fish Department reported a 33% increase in sage-grouse lek attendance this spring compared to last year. This marks a positive shift in the sage-grouse population, which follows the natural cycles the species experiences. Favorable moisture conditions this year also contributed to the improved sagebrush habitat, which is critical to sage-grouse survival.
On average, 28 male sage-grouse were observed at each active lek, with over 29,000 males counted across 90% of Wyoming’s known, occupied leks. Last year’s counts were affected by harsh winter conditions, but this year’s results were more favorable. Lek monitoring is a collaborative effort between Wyoming Game and Fish, federal partners, consultants, and volunteers. Observers monitor leks from a distance during the birds’ spring mating season.
Nyssa Whitford, Game and Fish’s sage-grouse/sagebrush biologist, emphasized the importance of healthy sagebrush ecosystems. “Sage-grouse are dependent on intact sagebrush ecosystems,” Whitford said. “Well-timed moisture and available habitat are essential for robust sage-grouse populations.”
Wyoming continues to invest in sage-grouse conservation, with over $500,000 annually allocated to study populations and protect their habitat. Currently, 80% of known leks in Wyoming are active, a steady figure that highlights the species’ resilience despite its population fluctuations.
Sage-grouse populations tend to rise and fall in cycles every seven to nine years, a trend supported by six decades of Game and Fish data. This year’s increase aligns with the species’ cyclical nature, and officials expect the population to either rise further or stabilize in the coming years.
Game and Fish also oversees a conservative hunting season for sage-grouse, with annual reviews and public input. In recent years, hunting season closures have been implemented in some areas, and hunters are now required to obtain a free annual sage-grouse permit.
News Story
Wyoming Sage-Grouse Lek Attendance Increases by 33% in 2024
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has reported a 33% increase in sage-grouse lek attendance this year. The rise is attributed to the natural population cycles of sage-grouse and favorable moisture conditions that benefited sagebrush habitat. Officials observed an average of 28 male sage-grouse per active lek, with over 29,000 males counted across 90% of known leks.
Sage-grouse populations in Wyoming follow cycles of growth and decline every seven to nine years. This year’s increase is seen as part of that natural pattern. The Game and Fish Department continues to manage sage-grouse populations carefully, with a focus on habitat preservation and a conservative hunting season.
Wyoming remains committed to sage-grouse conservation, investing over $500,000 annually in these efforts.
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