Strap in for another research review as we dive into scientific studies assessing characteristics of effective nesting sites. We discuss the critical aspects of nesting cover for wild turkeys, the dilemma of habitat preference versus availability, and the implications of these factors on turkey population success.

Resources:

What does wild turkey nesting cover look like? (video)

Crawford, J. C., et al. (2021). Wild turkey nest success in pine‐dominated forests of the southeastern United States. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 85(3), 498-507.

Everett Jr., D. D. (1982). Factors limiting populations of wild turkeys on state wildlife management areas in north Alabama. Auburn University.

Habitat Management = Predator Management | #66

Johnson, V. M., et al. (2022). Nest site selection and survival of wild turkeys in Tennessee. Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 9, 134-143.

Kilburg, Eric L., et al. "Wild turkey nest survival and nest‐site selection in the presence of growing‐season prescribed fire." The Journal of Wildlife Management 78.6 (2014): 1033-1039.

Londe, David W., et al. "Review of range‐wide vital rates quantifies eastern wild Turkey population trajectory." Ecology and Evolution 13.2 (2023): e9830.

Porter, W. F. (1992). Habitat analysis and assessment. The Wild Turkey: Biology and Management, 187.

Porter, W. F., et al. (1983). Effects of winter conditions on reproduction in a northern wild turkey population. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 281-290.

Speake, Daniel W. "Predation on wild turkeys in Alabama." 4th National Wild Turkey Symposium. Little Rock, Arkansas (USA). 2-5 Mar 1980.. 1980.

Thogmartin, W. E., & Johnson, J. E. (1999). Reproduction in a declining population of wild turkeys in Arkansas. The Journal of wildlife management, 1281-1290.

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Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak