Most experts say the monsoon initiates the breeding of mearns.
There are not many studies on mearns. But one thing is certain, over grazing plays a large part in the success of the survival of young mearns. Sufficient ground cover is essential to mearns to prevent raptors from killing them. The dry conditions in mearns country caused poor grass growth this summer. I am sure this is a big factor in the low numbers.
I also believe that some rain through the fall and winter helps keep soil softer for them to dig up their tubers and bulbs as well as keep the food source healthy. Conversely a deep freeze like we had several years ago kept the ground frozen for well over a week and we had a huge dieoff.
Last edited by Azshooter; 12/13/23.
