(UNDATED) – Each summer, Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife compiles observations of wild turkey broods (hen with poults) and hens without broods during July and August to obtain an estimate of the annual wild turkey Production Index (PI = Poults per adult hen).
Annual production is a primary factor influencing wild turkey population trends, regional population levels, and subsequent harvests and hunter success.
“This year, we aim to collect 3,000 brood observation reports across the state – with a goal of at least 25 observations per county,’ said Elizabeth Middleton, Stewardship Outreach Specialist with the Indiana Department of Natural ResourcesDivision of Fish & Wildlife. “We are especially interested in obtaining more observations in the southeastern portion of the state – we know there is a large amount of turkey habitat there, but we have received fewer reports in this region than in other parts of the state. The more observations we obtain, the better we can improve our estimates of turkey production regionally and inform wild turkey management.”
If you are interested in participating or would like to participate again, please register as a 2020 participant following the instructions at on.IN.gov/turkeybrood.
When you register, you will be asked to create a username and provide contact information. The survey runs from July 1 to Aug. 31, 2020. You can find a brood identification guide on our website: on.IN.gov/turkeybrood.
