The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has initiated its annual Wild Turkey Observation Survey, running from June 1 to August 31, and is seeking public participation. The survey aims to gather data on wild turkey populations across the state, contributing to informed wildlife management practices.
Observations recorded by the public provide crucial information on factors influencing turkey population trends, including nesting success, brood survival and annual reproduction. This data is particularly vital for understanding the number of young turkeys produced each year, which is a key indicator of population health. The survey also helps identify peak hatching dates and male carry-over from the spring hunting season.
Historically, TWRA staff have conducted summer turkey counts since the 1980s, providing a broad statewide picture. However, to obtain more detailed data for specific regions of Tennessee where staff presence may be limited, the agency is expanding the survey to include public participation.
Individuals interested in contributing to the survey can record turkey sightings observed incidentally while outdoors, whether on hikes, farms or backroads.
Participation involves:
Accessing the Survey Form: Observations can be submitted via a digital survey form accessible online or through the TWRA ArcGIS Mobile Field Application (Survey 123).
Identification Skills: Participants are encouraged to review a Wild Turkey tutorial and complete a short identification quiz to distinguish between gobblers, jakes, hens and poults (young turkeys).
Observation Protocol: There are no designated survey routes. Observers are asked to note the age and sex of turkeys seen, utilizing binoculars if available. For safety, vehicle occupants are encouraged to pull over to record sightings. Each separate sighting of turkeys should be submitted as an individual observation. Participants must also record the county in which the sighting occurred.
Further information on how to participate, including access to the digital survey form, identification tutorials and past survey results, is available on the TWRA website: www.tn.gov/twra/wildlife/turkey/wild-turkey-observation-survey.html.
