DEC Seeks Participants for 2024 Summer Turkey Survey

ALBANY — 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.