Mid-April 2025 TRFS Update

FRESH MID-APRIL LISTINGS THAT YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS...

NEW! Discover the allure of the Hill Country at Lazy Valley Ranch South, where expansive, awe-inspiring views set the stage for an exceptional property. Perfectly positioned near the charming towns of Kerrville, Fredericksburg, and Boerne, this remarkable ranch encompasses rolling hills, lush-productive fields, and elevations ranging from approximately 1,560’± to 1,700’± asl. Its versatile terrain offers endless possibilities, whether you envision bountiful hay production, grazing livestock, or simply enjoying serene countryside living at its finest.

NEW! Perched at the highest elevation in the entire subdivision—Canyon Creek Preserve Lot offers a spectacular setting with breathtaking, long-range views that stretch for miles. This 3.5± acre slice of paradise features a stunning mix of open hilltop space and a shaded, tree-filled valley below. A gentle breeze often graces the summit, providing a cool escape from the Texas heat, while the valley’s towering hardwoods create a peaceful, shaded retreat. Wildlife is abundant, with well-worn deer trails meandering across the land. Located just 12± miles from Helotes, this is a prime opportunity to build your dream home in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

FEATURED! With 675’± of both sides of Bear Creek frontage – Bear Creek Ranch offers stunning views and well-manicured land ready for immediate enjoyment. This perfect-sized ranch includes essential amenities such as a double-wide modular home and an equipment barn. Separating from a larger property, it promises an idyllic retreat with Bear Creek as its standout feature. Owned by the same family since the late 1990s, this ranch offers a serene country feel yet is close to all the amenities of New Braunfels and San Antonio.

CHECK OUT THE LATEST TEXAS DROUGHT CONDITIONS!

We're continuing to closely monitor the Texas drought conditions. Texas has seen recent rainfall which has helped the state avoid serious drought concerns. The state is experiencing an increase to 16.83% in exceptional drought conditions. Extreme drought conditions have increased to 29.99% statewide. Stay informed about current water conditions.

RANCH NEWS ARTICLES!

You can see the latest ranch news articles under “Resources” then go down to the “Ranch Articles” tab. The latest article discusses the Texas Land Trends Report and what that means for Texas. Read more. These articles are also featured in our bi-weekly email newsletter.

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Rising Quail Numbers Signal Promising Hunting Season

The quail population has seen an encouraging upward trend this year

Timely rains and improved habitat have sparked optimism for bobwhite and scaled quail hunters to kick off the 2024 hunting season.

According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) roadside survey, the quail population has seen an encouraging upward trend this year.

“This is good news for quail and for many across rural Texas,” John McLaughlin, TPWD upland game bird program leader, said. “While habitat is the main driver of long-term population trends, annual weather patterns, like rainfall and temperature, dictate yearly fluctuations. Unsurprisingly, the two are interconnected.”

Bobwhite quail benefited from early-season rains last year, promoting the growth of grasses and weeds and making up a healthy quail habitat. These favorable conditions led to population increases in nearly every ecoregion across Texas in 2023. The mild winter that followed improved carryover and kickstarted breeding activity, and cooler spring temperatures further boosted the 2024 population numbers.

“Interrupted by summer heatwaves, the rebuild has been slow, but bobwhite populations appear to be climbing fast out of the hole they’ve been mired in since 2020,” McLaughlin said. “As we enter the fall, it’s clear that there has been a significant increase in bird numbers across Texas, with bobwhites observed on greater than 50% of all survey routes this August. We expect ample opportunity for hunters in comparison to previous years and believe, with caveats and exceptions, there’s reason to be excited come Oct. 26.”

The Rolling Plains saw a rise in bobwhite quail numbers, with 16.5 birds per survey route, compared to just 3.43 last year.

While South Texas populations held steady according to official surveys, local reports suggest even better prospects for hunters this season, with good carryover from the previous year.

Scaled quail numbers also fared well, particularly in the Trans-Pecos region. Both the High Plains and Edwards Plateau recorded their second consecutive year of population increases. The Rolling Plains also saw a small uptick in scaled quail this August.

The Trans-Pecos, home to the largest scaled quail population in Texas, maintained a steady population of 20.12 birds per route. However, persistent dry conditions slowed nesting activity and reduced production earlier in the year. Despite this, the region benefited from good carryover, particularly in wildlife management areas.

“This means that while we likely didn’t build off back-to-back strong years, we also didn’t lose significant ground [out west],” McLaughlin said. “Habitat conditions will be the barometer by which we measure future production in these areas, but birds are holding tight for now. We expect good opportunities this season, diminishing in quality as we push into late winter.”

Quail hunting season statewide is Oct. 26, 2024, through Feb. 23, 2025.

Read TPWD’s quail index survey for northern bobwhite and scaled quail.