By New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation
New Yorkers are being asked to participate in a survey for wild turkeys and help state biologists better understand the iconic bird.
Since 1996, the Department of Environmental Conservation has conducted the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey to estimate the number of wild turkey poults (young turkey born this year) per hen statewide.
Weather, predation and habitat conditions during the breeding and brood-rearing seasons can all significantly impact nest success, hen survival, and poult survival. The index helps gauge reproductive success and predict fall harvest potential.
During August, survey participants record the sex and age composition of all flocks of wild turkeys observed during normal travel.
Those interested in participating can download a Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey form along with instructions and the data sheet.
Survey cards can also be obtained by contacting a regional DEC office, calling (518) 402-8883, or by e-mailing wildlife@dec.ny.gov (type Turkey Survey in the subject line).
Participants can also submit observations online.
Additional information available on citizen scientist initiatives can be found here.