Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey
Wild turkey hen with poults. Photo by Gordon Ellmers.
DEC conducts the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey annually. They are conducted 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. This survey is a great way to partner with DEC to help monitor this popular game bird.
View the 2021 Summer Turkey Sighting Survey Results (PDF).
Participate in the Survey
Please click on the following link to record your observations:
Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Online Report (leaves DEC website)
Results from Previous Years:
- Summer Turkey Sighting Survey Results 2020 (PDF)
- Summer Turkey Sighting Survey Results 2019 (PDF)
- Summer Turkey Sighting Survey Results 2018 (PDF)
