Buzz Grows Around Gamebird Research as Alumnus Reavis Z. Wortham Visits ETAMU

Excitement continues to build around the Ted and Donna Lyon Center for Gamebird Research at East Texas A&M University, as the center draws attention from lawmakers, landowners and notable alumni. On Aug. 7, bestselling author and East Texas A&M alumnus Reavis Z. Wortham visited the center to learn more about its innovative research focused on quail and other gamebird populations.

Wortham, a lifelong outdoorsman and avid gamebird hunter, expressed a personal interest in understanding the sharp decline in quail numbers across Texas, a trend he has observed over the years. Wortham toured the lab for upland gamebirds and spent time with students who are conducting field and laboratory research. He asked questions, offered encouragement and shared insights from his own journey as a writer navigating challenges and change.

“I’ve been a dedicated hunter all my life,” Wortham said, “and upland birds are among my favorite thing to hunt. But the quail population plummeted in the early nineties. It’s wonderful to see the research being conducted to hopefully bring populations back up.”

The visit included a detailed discussion led by Dr. Kelly Reyna, professor and director of the Lyon Center, who provided an overview of ongoing research efforts and emerging strategies aimed at restoring quail populations across the region.

“Reavis and I have walked the same hunting grounds and observed the same decline in quail populations over time,” said Reyna. “I'm thrilled to show him our solutions to build a future for quail and other gamebirds, right here at the Lyon Center.”

Dr. Reyna and Reavis Wortham | Chris Gage

The two also discovered a shared connection to several hunting locations across Texas. Wortham was impressed by the students he met and their dedication to quail research.

“These kids are excited,” he said. “They’re not all from the country, like you might expect—some are from the city and other places—but they have the same excitement for helping the gamebird population. What Kelly [Reyna] and his students are doing here can really make a difference.”

Wortham is one of several high-profile visitors to the Lyon Center in recent months. Senators, state representatives, ranchers and other industry influencers have taken notice of the center's leadership in gamebird research. As the center expands its impact, faculty and students are working together to build a future for quail and other gamebirds, putting East Texas A&M on the map as a leader in wildlife research.

Featured Photo: Students, Dr. Reyna and Reavis Wortham | Chris Gage