Pheasant population has to do with spring nesting. By this time of the year, most pheasants are close to full grown and can take care of themselves. This is not the first time that snow has fallen there.
Pen raised and released birds are just that. Most are stupid and don't know enough about getting out of the weather.
What states should do with released birds is to tag them, and then you will know.
Back in the late 60's and early 70's here is Pa. the state released pheasants at 6 weeks of age. By the time hunting season came, you thought they were wild birds.
I know in South Dakota, if you hunt on property and pay, they have to supplement birds and it is evident which ones are pen raised and wild.
There is no question, the lose of CRP harmed birds, but they will survive. States like South Dakota depend on the revenue that pheasant hunters bring in and I don't think they will ignore some of the things that are depleting the bird population.
