"Citizen science efforts like the Summer Turkey Sighting Survey provide DEC's wildlife managers with invaluable data while giving New Yorkers the opportunity to partner with us and help monitor New York's wildlife resources," Commissioner Seggos said. "I encourage residents to take the time to record any observations of turkeys while exploring the forests and fields around their homes or driving through the state's beautiful landscapes this summer."
Since 1996, DEC has conducted the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey to track wild turkey populations and estimate the number of wild turkey poults (young of the 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. This index allows DEC to 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 from DEC's website. In addition, survey cards can be obtained by contacting a regional DEC office, calling (518) 402-8883, or e-mailing wildlife@dec.ny.gov
