FRANKFORT, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources is asking people to help it collect data about turkeys.
The department said the surveys will help researchers expand their scope and capture a larger picture of turkey populations and reproduction in Kentucky.
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“The turkey population is studied by department staff and graduate student researchers, but they can only cover a limited area of the state,” said Zak Danks, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Wild Turkey Program Coordinator. “Keen-eyed volunteers who report turkey sightings through this survey really expand our ability to monitor the flock.”
In a news release, the department said Kentucky has seen near-record highs in turkey harvests, but hunters in the southeastern U.S. have been seeing a decline in sightings.
“A lot has changed across the Commonwealth since this survey began in 1984, back when turkeys were being released to restore a statewide population,” Danks said. “Today, turkey flocks face many pressures, including predation and disease. Whether we’re talking turkeys or Kentucky’s other native species, having an engaged citizenry to help monitor wildlife will be key to helping us adapt into the future.”
Surveys can be filled out on the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website, by downloading an app or submitting a copy of a paper form .
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The survey data from 2023 showed stable numbers since an initial dip in breeding in 2017. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife has been conducting these reports each summer since 1984.
People can continue to submit reports until Aug. 31.
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