The region experienced record low winter precipitation last year, marginal spring precipitation, but abundant summer rains. The small game outlook is mixed.

Squirrels – After yet another mild winter, squirrel carryover was good even though habitats were not optimum due to prolonged drought. However, good summer rainfall and a decent mushroom and berry crops are making a difference in many areas.

Hunters should expect good squirrel hunting in much of the Coconino and Kaibab national forests south of the Grand Canyon, with some pockets of excellent squirrel populations. The hunting should be decent for Kaibab squirrels on the Kaibab Plateau north of the Grand Canyon.

Hunting should also be good for Abert’s squirrels in the Mogollon Rim country, such as the areas around Blue Ridge Reservoir and Knoll Lake. Many of the higher elevation areas have excellent mushroom and berry crops. Some areas even have good acorn crops.

Blue grouse – This will likely be another marginal year for grouse. Suitable habitat and grouse distribution is limited on both the Kaibab Plateau and the San Francisco Peaks. Look for grouse along ridges in mixed conifer-aspen habitats and associated forest openings.

Chukar – Birds are limited in distribution and can be primarily along the Kanab Creek drainage. These are challenging birds to hunt, and hunters should seek water sources to locate them.

Quail – Hunting is limited in Region II. There can be some hunting opportunities in the very southern portion of the region and in the lower elevation habitats in the western part of the Arizona Strip.

Dove – Hunting is variable in this region and is totally dependent on local weather conditions. Cold fronts in early September often cause early migrations of mourning doves.

Band-tailed pigeon – Hunting is difficult to forecast due to irregular migration patterns and annual variation of acorn production. Look for band-tails in areas with abundant oak trees and good acorn production. Sitting at stock tanks located near feeding areas early and late in the day can be effective. Pre-scouting for acorns and pigeons is a must.

Waterfowl – Although the Flagstaff region experienced a wet summer, major waterfowl holding areas such as Mormon Lake are almost dry due to drought. This is not looking like a great year for waterfowl in the Flagstaff region.

Those looking for better waterfowl hunting opportunities in the Mountain Zone may want to consider the White Mountain area where abundant rainfall created a lot more marshy areas to hold waterfowl.