Buzz -- like Shorty, my first thought was why are there no pheasants there now? North Texas is too far south for my knowledge base, but west Kansas sure sustains good, wild populations. Southeast Kansas had essentially no pheasants, and I heard various "explanations" for that (high humidity, something missing in soil, but nothing that I could reliably pass on to you). I think I'd start with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Maybe you could track down their state upland game biologist. Why are there no pheasants in your location? Were they previously there? If so, an introduction of wild birds (good genetics) might prove useful. If they have been tried in the past, and failed, then probably save your time and money?? Hope those are helpful thoughts.

Here is what is says on their website. "Ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) are native to China but were introduced into the United States during the late 1800s. Populations in Texas are primarily restricted to the intensive agricultural farmlands of the High Plains and Coastal Prairies along the upper Texas coast. Pheasant releases by landowners and Texas Parks and Wildlife have contributed to the expansion of pheasants in these regions. Experimental releases of pheasants in Northcentral Texas have been unsuccessful except in the agricultural region of northern Wilbarger County where irrigated croplands and shelterbelts provide adequate year round habitat.

An open season for pheasants is designated for Wilbarger County in Northcentral Texas. Information on regulations for pheasants in other Texas counties is available in the Outdoor Annual. A hunting license is required to hunt pheasants in Wilbarger County."

So, that makes me think even more that you need to find the local expert (one of their upland game biologists).

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From Bob Lusk: Dr. Dave Willis passed away January 13, 2014. He continues to be a key part of our Pond Boss family...and always will be.