The Iowa pheasant harvest was historically low this past season. According to the Iowa DNR, only about 383,000 rooster pheasants were harvested in 2008-09. Hunters typically harvest more than 500,000 birds. Marion County Conservation Officer John Mertz says the season was poor in Marion County but hopefully there are signs of recovery. He says a strong nesting season, good weather and more available habitat will help the pheasant population rebound locally and statewide.