New Jersey pheasant hunters are in for a holiday bonus this year. Though not wrapped in bright paper and shiny bows, hunters will be treated to a special gift in the form of more birds.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife has just announced that an additional 3,000 pheasants will be released on December 18, 21, 23, 28 and 30. All 23 wildlife management areas as well as the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area will receive these extra birds increasing the original stocking total of 17,270 pheasants during this period by 16-percent!

The extra birds are the result of increased production and lower than anticipated mortalities at the Rockport Pheasant Farm in Warren County. The birds are raised at the historic facility and stocked for hunting purposes. The operation is paid for by sportsmen and women through the purchase of Pheasant and Quail Stamps.

For those who put off buying a stamp, now is the perfect time to take advantage of a great deal.