Sage-grouse lek attendance increases

CHEYENNE — Sage-grouse lek attendance has increased according to data from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department lek counts this spring. In 2024, lek attendance increased by 33 percent compared to last year. The appearance of more birds at leks is thought to be due to the natural population cycles of sage-grouse combined with good moisture that benefited sagebrush habitat.
This spring, officials observed an average of 28 male sage-grouse per active lek. More than 29,000 male sage-grouse were observed on 90 percent of known, occupied leks – an increase over last year when persistent winter conditions hampered monitoring efforts. Annual observations are carried out by Game and Fish, federal partners, consultants and volunteers. Leks are observed from a distance from both the ground and air during their spring mating.
Habitat is key to the sustainability of sage-grouse populations.