The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is encouraging people to participate in its annual Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey. During the month of August, participants record the sex and age of all wild turkeys they encounter over the course of a day.
In the age of Covid, getting outside for activities like hiking is good for you. Participating in the survey, surrounded by nature, is not only a great outlet for mental and physical health, but is also “a beneficial way to partner with D.E.C. in our wildlife management work to monitor the population of this popular game bird,” Basil Seggos, the agency's commissioner, said.
The D.E.C. has been conducting the survey since 1997 as a means to track wild turkey populations and estimate the amount of young per hen. The survey assists the agency in analyzing the reproductive success of the turkeys.
Those who wish to participate can download a form at dec.ny.gov, which is accompanied by a data sheet and instructions. Alternatively, observations can be submitted on this form.
Participants are reminded to abide by all social distancing rules and to get outside safely and responsibly.