HUNTING -- The birds of the year will be larger and the hunting dogs will have less chance of heat stroke and rattlesnake encounters when Idaho's partridge and quail seasons open this fall.

The Idaho seasons open Oct. 1 -- that's two weeks later than last year's season opener.

Organized sportsment made the a case for the later season opener before the state  Fish and Game Commission two years ago.

Washington, which also will open it's quail and chukar seasons on Oct. 1, went to the later season opening several years ago.

Read on for more details on Idaho's chukar and quail seasons.

Chukar, Partridge Seasons Open October 1

New this year, the chukar season opens October 1 along with partridge and quail.

• Chukar and gray partridge: October 1 through January 31, 2012.
  • Daily bag limit – six chukar and six gray partridge.
  • Possession limit after first day – 12 chukar and 12 gray partridge.
• Bobwhite and California quail: October 1 through January 31, 2012.
  • Daily bag limit – 10 total.
  • Possession limit after first day – 20 total.
  • Area 1 in eastern Idaho is closed.

Consult the rules brochures for details and exceptions.

The season for forest grouse, which include ruffed, spruce and dusky grouse, opened August 30 and runs through December 31. The daily limit is four, whether all of one or mixed species, and eight in possession after the first day. Hunters need only a valid hunting license to hunt quail, chukar, grey partridge and forest grouse.

All hunters need a valid 2011 Idaho hunting license. Hunters will find upland hunting rules and shooting times in the rules brochure.