SEAFWA 2017

AUTHORS: Matthew Gonnerman, Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife Science; James Grand, U.S. Geological Survey

ABSTRACT: Many southern states, including Alabama, manage eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) using estimates of population size and structure that are based in expert judgement of population density or harvest rate and sex ratio. Estimates of population size based on empirical data would provide better information on which to base management decisions. Few survey methods to estimate the size and structure of turkey populations have appeared in the peer-reviewed literature. We conducted camera surveys on wildlife openings in July and August 2015-2016 to estimate the distribution, abundance, structure, and productivity of wild turkey populations at four study areas in different landscapes across Alabama. Our results suggest that the average probability of use by turkeys was 0.61 (0.22-1.00; 95% C.L.). The average density of turkeys on wildlife openings was 0.82 (0.70-0.94; 95% C.L.) for males, 1.65 (1.48-1.82; 95% C.L.) for females, and 1.18 (1.04-1.32; 95% C.L.) for poults. Turkey densities on wildlife openings were related to amount of forest cover and forest type (pine or hardwood). Total turkey density and density of males were related to landcover characteristics within 500m of wildlife openings, and densities of young were most related to landcover within 1750m of openings. Female density were similarly related to landcover within 500m and 1750m. Productivity, measured as the ratio of young to hens, was an estimated .71 (.57-.84; 95% C.L.). We suggest that camera trap surveys can be an effective means of monitoring turkey populations for management.