DEC encourages New Yorkers to take part in the State's annual survey of wild turkeys. Since 1996, DEC has conducted the 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. Weather, predation, and habitat conditions during breeding and brood-rearing seasons can significantly impact nest success, and hen and poult survival. This index allows DEC to gauge reproductive success and predict fall harvest potential.
During August, survey participants record the sex and age composition of all flocks of wild turkeys observed during normal travel. Those interested in participating can click the "Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Online report" on the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey webpage.
Additional information is available on the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey and Citizen Science Initiatives webpages.