Thank you for your interest in wild turkey management in Idaho. The primary purpose for this annual survey is to monitor wild turkey reproduction and population dynamics throughout the state. Data obtained will allow managers to monitor trends in reproduction and populations, and help make regulatory recommendations necessary to maintain sustainable populations.
Prior to this effort, Idaho did not have a formal population survey for wild turkeys. Beginning in 2024, Fish and Game requests wild turkey observations from the public in an effort to improve survey participation and distribution of observations throughout the state. This survey provides two important types of information for monitoring and managing wild turkeys:
1. July and August: Brood Survey:
A brood survey provides information on productivity, which is the number of surviving offspring produced in a population. A brood is composed of at least one adult hen with young (poults). Summer brood survival is a primary driver of wild turkey population trends. This survey will provide information on average brood sizes, percentage of hens with offspring, and a production index, which is a ratio of the total number of offspring to the total number of adult hens.
2. Year round: Distribution Survey:
A distribution survey assesses where birds are located. This information helps managers track habitat use throughout the year and if their range is expanding or contracting.
Participants are strongly encouraged to complete their survey entries online or using the Survey 123 app on their mobile device.