The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife plans to conduct a turkey brood survey during the month of August, and officials are asking for help from Vermonters who see the birds around the state.
“Data gathered from the survey will help establish long-term trends in turkey reproductive success and recruitment,” said state turkey biologist Amy Alfieri.
But reproductive success on the part of turkey’s isn’t necessarily good news. According to a Department of Fish and Wildlife release, “[o]ver-abundant turkey populations can damage crops and food stored for livestock in bunker silos.”
Enter turkey hunting, the state’s method of controlling the population.
“More than 5,100 wild turkeys were taken by hunters in Vermont’s 2014 spring hunt,” the release said. Last year, hunters killed a record 6,362 turkeys.
Turkey season is over until October, but officials are still hoping Vermonters will keep their eyes out for the big birds during August and report any sightings online at VTFishandWildlife.com.
