06/08/2026
Was the introduction of Fescue Grass a Contributing Factor to declining Quail and Wild Turkey Populations in Southeastern Oklahoma?
Fescue grass, was introduced into the United States from Europe in the late 1800’s. By the 1970’s, tall fescue had become common in Southeastern Oklahoma pastures, often replacing native prairie grasses such as bluestem and switch grass. Fescue was promoted as a way to extend the grazing season for cattle because of its cool-season growth ability, which is definitely true and a financial benefit for ranchers.
I have often wondered if the introduction of Fescue was one of the contributing factors in the decline of quail and even wild turkey numbers in Southeastern Oklahoma. Fescue creates very dense ground cover which greatly restricts the movement of young chicks and poults to catch insects and also increases predation risks.
My grandparents planted row crops like corn to feed livestock which created ideal conditions for ground nesting birds… very sparse ground cover facilitating movement for chicks and abundant insects that are essential protein for growing quail and turkey. These same fields are now Fescue/Rye Grass dominate fields used for hay production.
Habitat loss definitely plays a role, but I still honestly believe that nest predation is the primary driver behind declining turkey and quail populations. Even in good cover, too many nests are getting wiped out before they ever have a chance. Many research dollars have been poured into this subject, but I am just a common guy just sharing what I have seen with my own eyes.