Report Turkey Sightings
in August
New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos
today encouraged New Yorkers to take part in the State's annual survey of
wild turkeys, a valuable tool that helps DEC determine the productivity
of turkey populations statewide.
"Citizen scientists
provide important data that helps our biologists examine how factors such
as weather, predation, and habitat conditions during the breeding and
brood-rearing seasons impact turkey survival," Commissioner Seggos
said. "Without the assistance of our
volunteers, the task of monitoring turkey populations statewide would be
far more difficult, and we encourage participation this summer to help
enhance our knowledge of turkeys in New York."
Turkey populations in New
York State peaked in the late 1990s and early 2000s. However, over the
past decade, turkey productivity has consistently been below average,
leading to lower populations. Since 1996, DEC has conducted the annual
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. This index allows DEC to gauge reproductive success and
predict future turkey populations and harvest opportunities.
DEC uses reported
observations of wild turkeys to track annual productivity over time and
in different parts of the state. User-submitted data also helps wildlife
managers forecast hunting prospects for the coming fall season and
subsequent spring seasons. To submit turkey observations, citizen scientists are encouraged to use DEC's
online form.
Additional information,
including results from previous summer surveys,
please visit DEC's website:
Summer
Wild Turkey Sighting Survey
Citizen
Science Initiatives
DEC
Regional Office Contact Information
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