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Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey

August Survey of Wild Turkey Flocks and Broods

drawing of wild turkey hen with poults
Wild turkey hen with poults

DEC conducts the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey annually during the month of August to estimate the average number of wild turkey poults (young of the year) per hen statewide and among major geographic regions of the State. This index allows us to gauge reproductive success in a given year and allows us to predict fall harvest potential. Weather, predation, and habitat conditions during the breeding and brood-rearing seasons can all significantly impact nest success, hen survival, and poult survival.

During the month of August, Department staff and volunteers record the sex and age composition of all flocks of wild turkeys observed during normal travel. If you would like to participate, you can download a Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey form (296 KB pdf) to record your observations. Detailed instructions can be found with the data sheet. This is a great way to partner with DEC to help monitor this popular game bird.

Please return all completed surveys to: Turkey Survey, NYSDEC, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4754

Thanks for your help!


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