Waterfowl Model Guide

Waterfowl Models at a Glance

FowlTracker now includes three map model options under Waterfowl Model:

  • Auto (Select best available) - Recommended. Uses the best available model for your selected date and map area.
  • Roosting Model (Radar-Based) - Shows where birds roosted and where concentrations were strongest.
  • Presence Model (GPS-Based) - Shows the likelihood birds were present in each area.

In Auto mode, FowlTracker prefers Roosting data where both models are available, and uses Presence data where Roosting is not available.

How to Read the Legend

In Auto mode, the legend title tells you which model is currently being used at the center of your map view. As you pan, the center tile can change models, so the legend title can update with it.

Example of Waterfowl Roosting Map

How to Interpret Model Output

Darker, more intense colors represent stronger waterfowl signal, while lighter colors represent weaker signal. Use Auto for day-to-day scouting, then switch to a specific model when you want deeper context.

How to read each model:

  • Roosting Model (Radar-Based) - Best for seeing where birds concentrated and held overnight.
  • Presence Model (GPS-Based) - Best for understanding confidence that birds were present in an area.
  • Auto - Prefers Roosting when both are available, and uses Presence when Roosting is not available.
  • Always use the live legend in the map control as the source of truth for color labels and descriptions.

How to Use the Layer

The Waterfowl activity layer is enabled by default when you load FowlTracker. You can toggle it on and off using the control in the top-right corner of the map.

💡 Pro Tip:

Start with Auto and a historical date, then pan to your target area and read the legend title. It quickly tells you which model is active at the center of your map for that location.

Best Practices for Hunt Planning

  • Look for Extreme and Very High areas - These represent your best hunting opportunities
  • Check multiple dates - Consistent activity in an area indicates a reliable holding zone
  • Consider the terrain - Birds often roost in protected areas near water
  • Plan your approach - Set up between roosting areas and feeding grounds for optimal hunting
  • Monitor weather patterns - Cold fronts and storms can concentrate birds in specific areas

Data Availability

Waterfowl model data is available for dates from November through March, covering peak waterfowl hunting seasons. Availability can vary by model and date.

Note: The availability of data may vary depending on weather conditions and technical factors. Some dates may not have complete coverage.