The weather's impact varies across species and regions. While early nesting attempts benefited from above-average spring moisture, the dry and hot July posed challenges for late-hatched birds, particularly in southwestern North Dakota. Hunters may encounter localized variations in wildlife abundance, with the west-central region expected to offer the best opportunities. Drought conditions in some areas could also affect habitat quality, potentially limiting wildlife recovery in the long term (North Dakota Game and Fish, 2026).