DEC turns to citizen scientists for annual summer turkey survey

By Jennifer Patterson

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is calling all turkey watchers.

If you enjoy keeping tabs on solitary gobblers boasting their dark plumage, or a flock of hens tending to their poults (babies), then the DEC is encouraging you to participate in the state’s annual survey of wild turkeys this August.

“DEC’s Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey is a great opportunity for people to participate in wildlife science,” said DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. “Anyone with Internet access can participate, simply by reporting their observations while exploring the outdoors.”

Since 1996, the DEC has conducted the annual survey to track turkey populations and estimate the number poults per hen statewide.

Weather, predation and habitat conditions during breeding and brood-rearing seasons can significantly impact nest success, as well as hen and poult survival.

This index allows the DEC to estimate how productive the turkey population is each year and compare reproductive success between years. It also helps to predict fall harvest potential for hunting season.

Observations made in late July and August are especially important, as young poults that have survived are likely to become adults.

Survey participants are asked to record the observed dates, locations, sex and ages of wild turkeys online at http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/48732.html.

In addition, there are opportunities for nature lovers to help the Bureau of Wildlife collect valuable data.

Citizen scientists are needed to help with submitting sightings of amphibians crossing roads, and recording observations and trail camera photos of black bears and other animals to help biologists study the distribution and abundance of different species throughout New York.

For information, go to https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/1155.html.