Engage In Conservation: Participate In NY's Wild Turkey Survey

“As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly.” Remember that quote from the CBS sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati, as muttered by the station manager Arthur Carlson? The episode “Turkeys Away” aired in October 1978. That episode remains one of my all-time favorites.

This article isn't about that TV episode, but it is about turkeys. Turkeys in New York State, that is. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is looking for your help.

According to Sean Mahar, NYS DEC Interim Commissioner, the state is asking New York residents to participate in their annual survey for wild turkeys. During the month of August 2024, those who choose to take part will be able to observe the dates, locations, sex, and ages of wild turkeys.

DEC’s Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey is a great opportunity for people to participate in wildlife science. Anyone with internet access can participate, simply by reporting their observations while exploring the outdoors. - Sean Mahar, NYS SEC Interim Commissioner

Participants will use an online form, which can be accessed via smartphone, tablet, or computer, with the survey form and instructions available on the NYS DEC’s website. New York State residents have been a part of this annual survey since 1996.

The NYS DEC notes that weather and habitat changes can impact turkey reproduction and populations. The annual August observations help to estimate how productive the turkey population is each year, compare reproductive success between years, and help biologists manage wild turkey populations.

For more information and to participate, visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's website.

Tiny Airbnb House In The Pines

Gallery Credit: Hosted by Sam via Airbnb

LOOK: How Many of These Classic Summer Toys Do You Remember?

If you grew up in the Wild West of the '60s, '70s, or '80s, summer toys were a lifeline because many of us were locked outside (until the street lights came on). Inside was no place for a kid! Check out these classic summer toys that kept us cool, kept us busy, and always seemed to add a dash of danger.

Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz