 and ruffled grouse counts in Minnesota are the highest since 1972. The DNR says the warm temperatures and dry conditions we've seen in the past few years favor high nest success and chick survival, possibly explaining the quicker-than-expected rise to peak levels in the 10-year population cycle of the bird. Snow conditions were also favorable for roosting the two previous winters, followed by an unusually warm winter this year. Numbers will differentiate come fall, as the heavy June rains could have effect