Deer are 'flocking' together too; grouping together in cold weather to utilize standing foods; food plots and other protein sources. "They'll be shifting to tree buds and tips. That might push them up into yards," cautions DNR wildlife supervisor Don Pfeiffer. "They're looking for different foods that aren't covered by snow." Don't Like the Weather? Geese Leave. Waterfowl have an option that most other Iowa wildlife does not. They can migrate. And they are. "We have seen major movements of Canada geese in the last couple weeks; Vs of 150, 200 birds flying low, flying straight," notes Guy Zenner, DNR waterfowl biologist. "They are getting out of Minnesota, Rick Northrop & Tinker GWP Green Bay, WI

where their food is covered." Likewise, many Iowa geese have vacated the premises. "Some areas in northern Iowa are without geese for the first time in four years," says Zenner. "They fly just as far as they have to, for food and open water. They'll push (the snow line) pretty hard. They have a strong urge to get back to their breeding grounds." At the same time, he points to local populations of 'park geese' who do find enough to eat, while spending the winter in urban settings. To Feed or Not to Feed? With game birds more visible now in the heavy snow, some people raise the

question of feeding them. "The DNR does not recommend people feed (game) birds in most situations," underscores DNR upland game biologist Todd Bogenschutz. "It concentrates the birds for predators. If you feel the need to feed the birds, there are several guidelines you should follow." He recommends you provide food adjacent to good winter cover; such as cattails, switchgrass, or conifers, and away from tall trees. You should also scatter food to keep the birds dispersed throughout the habitat, and continue feeding throughout the remainder of the winter. "Perhaps the best advice is to contact your local DNR wildlife biologist or Pheasants Forever chapter and plant a food plot or other habitat for the birds for next year," urges Bogenschutz "A little advanced planning this spring is the best defense the birds have against Mother Nature next winter."