Season: August

Learn about pre-season scouting and animal behavior in August. Discover where and how to observe game species preparing for the fall.

August — Transition from Summer to Early Fall

Mammals

In August, many fur-bearing mammals’ young begin to live independently, marking the end of parental care for species such as martens, fishers, and mink. For some animals, this month also signals the start of their summer-autumn breeding season.

Birds

The seasonal life of birds in northern latitudes still shows strong summer characteristics during the first two-thirds of August — young are hatching and growing, and adult birds undergo molt. However, by late August, a rapid shift occurs: many northern species start their southward migration and formation of flocks for travel.

• Brood Development
  Young waterfowl and shorebirds, including teal and pintails, become strong fliers, capable of migration. Late hatchlings finish fledging.

• Molting and Flocking
  Adult birds molt into their non-breeding plumage while gathering into post-breeding flocks. Species such as mallards, black ducks, and various sandpipers become more gregarious.

• Migration Begins
  In many northern and mid-latitude regions, flocks of teal, black ducks, and shorebirds begin to move, initiating early migration. This period also sees the peak movement of species like dowitchers and yellowlegs.

Hunting and Fieldcraft (North America)

August is a key month for hunting upland game birds and waterfowl, with practices including:

• Pointing Dogs hunting broods of grouse, woodcock, and rails.

• Approach Hunting targeting species like quail, mourning doves, and various shorebirds.

• Still Hunting and Ambush for birds such as woodcock and snipe, relying on knowledge of feeding and resting areas.

• Driven Hunts where beaters carefully push birds towards concealed hunters.

Hunters are advised to move quietly, use natural cover like ridges and shrub clusters, and avoid startling birds with sudden movements. Successful hunters know how to select ambush points and anticipate bird behavior to maximize success.

Regional Highlights

August at a Glance

Game Species Found in August