7,300 Pheasants Are Being Released Across Southern Michigan
Thousands of pheasants are getting new Michigan addresses, courtesy of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Some of those birds get a December move-in date.
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I'd be demanding a word with the realtor.
Where Michigan Pheasants Are Being Released
The DNR plans to release nearly 7,300 pheasants at 13 state game and wildlife areas. Releases run October 20 through November 14, 2026, and December 1, 2026, through January 1, 2027.
Mid-Michigan sites include Dansville State Game Area in Ingham County and Rose Lake State Wildlife Area in Clinton and Shiawassee counties.
Other state game areas include Cornish, Crane Pond, Crow Island, Erie, Gagetown, Lapeer, Leidy Lake, Pointe Mouillee, St. Johns Marsh, Stanton, and Townline 16.
How Many Pheasants Live in Michigan?
Michigan still has wild pheasants, but there isn't a reliable estimate of the statewide population. The 7,300 being released are not part of the existing population.
Wild numbers have declined dramatically as development and changes in agricultural practices have reduced grassland habitat.
Why Michigan Releases Pheasants for Hunting
The $25 pheasant license funds the program, giving experienced hunters and newcomers opportunities to pursue released roosters. Habitat improvements remain central to supporting wild populations.
RELATED: Michigan's Spring Turkey Harvest Tops 18,700: See Every County
Lower Peninsula pheasant hunting runs October 20 through November 14, 2026. An additional southern Lower Peninsula season runs December 1, 2026, through January 1, 2027, coinciding with the releases.
Michigan's 2026 Spring Turkey Harvest by County
Gallery Credit: Scott Clow
