What Are Upland Birds?

You might have seen hunters in a field wearing bright orange vests, with a broken shotgun slung over their shoulders and a short-haired pointer waiting attentively between their legs or by their side. This is, perhaps, the quintessential image of an upland hunt.

But what are upland birds? And which species come under the umbrella of this catch-all term? 

We're here to clear that up! Let's look at the definition of upland birds, some common species, and how these game animal categories interact with hunting and conservation practices. 

What Are Upland Birds? 

Upland birds refer to game bird species that inhabit dry, elevated environments such as fields, grasslands, and forests–these are considered non-wetland habitats. Due to this, upland birds are often hunted on foot, often with the help of pointers or hunting dogs. 

What Are the Common Upland Bird Species in North America? 

While many upland bird species exist in North America, we will stick with some of the most common species (especially those pursued by hunters) here. 

Pheasants 

While there are various pheasant subspecies, the only primary species in the U.S. is the ring-necked pheasant.

This upland bird, known for its colorful plumage and explosive flush, was first introduced in 1881. The ring-necked pheasant has thrived in the North American environment, particularly in the North, establishing itself in plains and flat environments such as grasslands and agricultural fields. 

Quail 

Synonymous with upland bird game hunting, quail are covey birds found in brushy fields and wood edges. Due to their agility and tendency to hole up in thick grasses, hunters often go after these birds with pointers or flushing dogs. 

Grouse 

Grouse hunting offers the opportunity to target a variety of subspecies, including ruffed, spruce, and sharp-tailed species that inhabit different environments, inviting a unique approach and a tailored hunting strategy.

Ruffed and spruce grouse are commonly found in forest environments as they use trees for feeding and to take cover. Using the grasslands and brush to their advantage, you're more likely to come across a sharp-tailed grouse in an open zone, such as a prairie. 

Partridge 

Partridge species include the Hungarian (gray) partridge, which is often found in open country and is the most commonly hunted partridge species in North America. To hunt this species, you'll want to head to the Midwest mountainous regions of Canada and America, such as the grain belt. 

Chukar 

The chukar partridge prefers rocky terrain and is often found in canyons, cliffs, and sagebrush hillsides. This subspecies, commonly found in the Western U.S. region, is a popular game species for hunters looking to test their skills and endurance in challenging sloped environments. 

Woodcock

This unique migratory upland bird is found in moist, wooded areas. It's a highly prized species most often hunted with pointer dogs in deep brush. 

As you can see, there is a wide range of birds to answer the question, "What are upland birds?"

What is Upland Bird Hunting? 

"Upland bird hunting" is a catch-all term for pursuing upland bird species in dry upland environments compared to wetland pursuits.

Upland hunting is most commonly done on foot with a shotgun, often using trained bird dogs to locate and flush birds. It's usually a fast-paced hunting style that requires close-range shooting and quick decision-making. 

Gun dogs for upland hunting fall into three categories:

• Pointers that indicate where birds are
• Flushers to scare birds into flight
• Retrievers to bring downed birds back to the hunter. 

Gear-wise, you'll want to focus on lightweight long-sleeve clothing to keep your temperature comfortable but also offer protection as you push through brushy zones and prickly bushes. For safety, always wear your blaze orange vest, hunting vest shell loops, and game pouch.

A trusted and lightweight 12 or 20 gauge shotgun that's comfortable and a soft shooter will be all you need out in the field. 

Why Hunters Love Hunting These Birds 

Upland hunting is a fast-paced style that merges a range of hunting skills, including dog work, walk-and-hunt, and wing shooting. What's not to love?

It's a hunting style steeped in U.S. tradition that draws hunters from all walks of life who are dedicated, conservation-focused, and passionate about the sport. While the bounty may not fill the freezer like a big game tag, the meat is lean and tasty and can form the basis for a range of tasty dishes. 

Conservation and Upland Bird Hunting

Hunting upland birds has a strong connection with conservation.

Upland bird hunting involves species that often inhabit a delicately balanced ecosystem. Bird identification is essential, as is ensuring licenses and stamps are paid and up to date to support conservation practices. 

Always follow bag limits and, wherever possible, consider donating to or helping with organizations that preserve upland environments. 

Upland Bird Hunting Tips for Successful Hunts

Due to species variation and differences in dispersion, your intended hunting environment will change drastically depending on your target species.

Research your target species on the relevant state-based conservation website and scour online maps from the HuntWise app to better understand the zone you intend to hunt. This will inform everything from your gear choice to your physical preparation. 

Next, you'll want to tailor your firearm and shot to your target species.

• Smaller birds, such as quail, are better suited for hunting with a 20-gauge and smaller shot sizes, such as #7½ or #8.
• A pheasant hunt will call for a 12-gauge and #5 or #6-sized shot.

If possible, hunt with gun dogs or a hunting buddy with a gun dog, increasing your chances of bagging out and flushing birds to target. Work the dogs slowly, allowing them first to work the edges of brush and cover, and stay patient and quiet during this time, as birds will flush quickly. 

Keep an eye on the weather. Weather patterns, such as mornings after a light frost, can be ideal for grouse and woodcock and will impact bird feeding and behavior. 

For Better Upland Bird Hunts, Let HuntWise Help

For an exciting, fast-paced, and varied hunt, an upland bird hunt fits the bill. From the thick woods of grouse country to the flatter plains of pheasant country, there's a rich and rewarding history behind every hunt. 

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or interested in starting your upland bird hunting journey, use the HuntWise hunting app to scout smarter, plan better, and get the most out of every upland adventure.

Don't have HuntWise? 
Start planning for the upland game season today by downloading and exploring the app for free for your first week!