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Think of it as Pokémon Go meets birding.
Idaho Fish and Game’s hugely successful project — dubbed Turkey Tracker — launched last summer and by the time the year was out had racked up over 1,400 turkey sightings across Idaho. Now, as we head into July and August, tracking turkeys is more important than ever. That’s where you come in.
Turkey Tracker relies solely on folks like you reporting their turkey sightings. Because we are interested in tracking nesting success and reproduction, observations of broods during July and August are especially important. So, next time you’re out and about and see some wild turkeys, pull out your smartphone and document your sightings. Think of it as Pokémon Go meets birding.
We are asking people to spot and record wild turkeys on Fish and Game's website—especially during July and August when hens are with young ones. This annual turkey survey (now in its second year) relies on wild turkey observations from the public, including how many birds were spotted and in what county they were seen.
Those who report also have the option of downloading photos of the birds, but photos are not required. Turkey trackers can also download an app to report sightings.
“The purpose of this annual survey is to monitor wild turkey reproduction and population dynamics throughout the state, and the response to this inaugural citizen science effort was exceptional,” said Jeff Knetter, Fish and Game Upland Game and Migratory Game Bird Coordinator. “Reports obtained will help managers monitor trends in wild turkey reproduction and populations, which will help us make management recommendations so we can sustain wild turkey populations in Idaho.”
Right now is as important as ever to download the free Survey 123 app and get to spottin’ turkeys! Head on over to Idaho Fish and Game’s Wild Turkey webpage to learn more.