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Darke S.W.C.D.
Help Track Ohio’s Wild Turkey and Ruffed Grouse Populations
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Citizen scientists can participate in surveying Ohio’s
wild turkey and ruffed grouse populations by reporting sightings in
July and August, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources
(ODNR) Division of Wildlife.
Every summer, the Division of Wildlife conducts a turkey and grouse
brood survey to estimate population growth. The brood survey relies on
the public to report observations of all wild turkeys and ruffed grouse
seen during July and August. Observations can be reported at the
wildlife species sighting webpage at wildohio.gov.
Information collected for wild turkeys includes the number of gobblers,
hens and young turkeys (poults) observed. Information collected for
ruffed grouse include the number of adults and young observed. The date
and the county where the observation occurred are recorded for both
species.
This survey is conducted by state wildlife agencies across the wild
turkey’s range, which includes Ohio. Information submitted to Ohio’s
brood survey helps to predict future population changes and guide wild
turkey management in the state and across the nation. In 2019, the
public submitted 436 valid reports with a statewide average of 2.3
poults per hen. The 10-year average is 2.6 poults per hen. Biologists
began tracking summer observations of wild turkeys in 1962. Ruffed
grouse were added to the survey in 1999.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish
and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and
appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural
resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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