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DEC Seeks Participants for 2024 Summer Turkey Survey
Published: July 29, 2024 at
03:30 p.m.
By: Press Release from NYS DEC
DEC Seeks Participants for 2024 Summer Turkey Survey
Public Encouraged to Report Turkey Sightings During
Month of August
New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean
Mahar is encouraging New Yorkers to participate in the State’s annual
survey for wild turkeys this summer.
“DEC’s Summer
Wild Turkey Sighting Survey is a great opportunity for people to
participate in wildlife science,” Interim Commissioner Mahar said. “Anyone
with internet access can participate, simply by reporting their
observations while exploring the outdoors.”
Throughout
August, participants can record observed dates, locations, sex, and ages of
wild turkeys by using an online form as they enjoy the State’s beautiful
summer landscapes. The form can be filled out on a smartphone, tablet, or
computer. The survey form and instructions are available on DEC’s website.
DEC has conducted
the annual Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey with the help of the public
since 1996. Many factors, including weather and habitat changes, can impact
turkey reproduction and populations. By collecting observations of turkeys
in August, DEC estimates how productive the turkey population is each year
and compare reproductive success between years. Annual measures of poult
production (number of young-of-the-year birds) are important data that help
biologists manage wild turkey populations.
Citizen or
community science opportunities like the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey
cultivate a collaborative partnership between the public and DEC while
providing data that can be used to help manage wildlife species, including
turkeys. Summary data from the survey is posted on the Fall Turkey Harvest
and Productivity Dashboard on DEC’s website.
For additional
information and resources, visit:
Photo credit: Kevin Watz
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