Did you find anyone to go with yet? Not sure how often I'll get out this year but I can let you know when I go. I only go mid week though. Never on weekends. I've struggled to find them within an hour of Cochrane. They are there, just not always easy to find, especially in September. Usually much better when the leaves fall and even better after a frost or two.
They like thick brush, dogwood bushes, aspens, and marshes. In Ontario I could always find them near oak trees as they love acorns, but good luck finding that here. They also really like edge cover - where a tree line begins next to a field, road, atv trail, powerline, or even where newly planted trees meet old growth. I would suggest starting by heading up forestry trunk road and head down some side roads. Walk around in the bush looking for habitat as described above. Don't be afraid to get off the atv trail or cut line and walk into the bush following a deer run here and there. Especially earlier in the season when they're harder to find.
Pay attention when you're walking. Look for old shotgun shells on the ground or patches of feathers from someone field dressing a bird. At least you'll know you're in the right area.
Good luck!
|