Help the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department analyze spring turkey production by recording wild turkey sightings during August using our web-based survey.
When Should I Record My Sightings?
- The survey period runs from August 1 to August 31. A link to the online form will be available on August 1.
What Should I Report?
- number of turkeys seen and where (the town)
- sex and age of the birds (if possible)
- a brood sighting, which is one or more hens with young
- adult hens without young
Why Count Turkeys?
Brood surveys monitor annual nesting success and survival of hens and their young, which has the greatest influence on Vermont’s wild turkey population. The information lets us track many factors essential for sound turkey management including:
- average brood sizes
- percentage of adult hens with young
- overall numbers of turkeys seen
This information, combined with harvest data, lets us scientifically manage the wild turkey population—ensuring we have a thriving population now and in the future.
Get outside and count some turkeys. It is fun and will help us determine the state’s turkey abundance!
Wild Turkey Brood Survey Background
Since 1994, The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has conducted a wild turkey brood survey to analyze spring turkey production. The National Wild Turkey Federation has also partnered with the department to promote and enhance the statewide brood survey effort. Now it's your turn to get involved.
Dewey Building
