31: SOME EFFECTS OF WEATHER AND TIMBER MANAGEMENT ON MERRIAM'S TURKEYS IN COLORADO*
ABSTRACT The climate of the range occupied by Merriam's turkey (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) in Colorado is usually not severe, because flocks move from high summer range to preferred winter range at lower elevations. Measurements of snowfall and precipitation within two preferred winter areas...
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| Main Author: | |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Wiley
1973-01-01
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| Series: | Wildlife Society Bulletin |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2328-5540.1973.tb00065.x |
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| Summary: | ABSTRACT The climate of the range occupied by Merriam's turkey (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) in Colorado is usually not severe, because flocks move from high summer range to preferred winter range at lower elevations. Measurements of snowfall and precipitation within two preferred winter areas are listed. Occasionally, as in the 6‐week period from early February 1964 to mid‐March 1964, frequent heavy snows and high winds result in unusual winter stress on turkeys, unless food conditions are exceptionally good. Methods of harvesting timber affect selection of roost sites and the establishment and maintenance of forest openings. Selective cutting that removed approximately half of the old growth in stands of uneven‐age ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) on two summer roost sites did not appear to deter turkeys from using these sites for roosting. There were 17 other roost sites (9 winter and 8 summer sites) in unlogged tracts of old‐growth timber. No roost sites were found in second‐growth timber after clear‐cutting operations. |
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| ISSN: | 2328-5540 |