Mid-July 2025 TRFS Update

DON'T MISS THESE MID-JULY, JAW-DROPPING UPDATES...

NEW! Sage Oaks Estate showcases a spectacular custom-built home on a secluded 6.1± acre property in Comal County’s desirable Sage Oaks Subdivision. This rare Hill Country offering combines serene natural surroundings, refined luxury living, and exceptional outdoor amenities. Privately gated and Ag-exempt, the estate provides the space, privacy, and versatility sought by discerning Buyers, with no HOA and plenty of room for enjoyment of the outdoors.

MAJOR PRICE REDUCTION OF OVER $750,000! Three Peaks Ranch stands in a league of its own, offering breathtaking long-range views just north of Boerne. The ranch encompasses 309.65± acres and features a five-bedroom/three-bathroom main home atop the highest hilltop, which serves as a great vantage point to admire sunset views. Abundant large-mature live oak, pecan, mesquite trees, native grasses, and wildlife make this ranch the perfect serene getaway.

JUST SOLD! Lazy Rock Ranch is an 80.65± acre property located within the High Point Ranch Subdivision. The land showcases gently rolling terrain, a mix of open flats, and pockets of dense native vegetation—creating prime habitat for wildlife. Positioned at the end of a subdivision road and bordered by a large, low-fenced ranch, this private setting offers exceptional views and a peaceful atmosphere.

PRAYING FOR THE HILL COUNTRY!

Our hearts are with everyone in the Hill Country affected by the recent flooding. We’re praying for the safety of our neighbors, first responders, and all those impacted in our community. May strength, comfort, and healing surround each of you as we face this trying time together.

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 USDA's new plan for national security... Read more. These articles are also featured in our bi-weekly email newsletter.

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We genuinely value your participation in the TRFS community. We eagerly look forward to sharing upcoming property updates and opportunities with you!

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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.