TURKEY GENDER RATIOS AND HARVEST STRATEGIES IN SOUTHEASTERN WYOMING
Abstract: Isolated populations of introduced Merriam's turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) occur throughout riparian habitats in Wyoming. Anecdotal observations by Wyoming Game and Fish Department wildlife personnel indicated that isolated flocks decreased significantly as the proportion of...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Wiley
2005-01-01
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| Series: | Wildlife Society Bulletin |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2328-5540.2005.tb00328.x |
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| Summary: | Abstract: Isolated populations of introduced Merriam's turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) occur throughout riparian habitats in Wyoming. Anecdotal observations by Wyoming Game and Fish Department wildlife personnel indicated that isolated flocks decreased significantly as the proportion of males in the flock increased, some to the point of local extirpation. We collected winter flock classification data each January from 1997–2001 in Goshen County. Survey results in 1997 and 1998 indicated flock composition was heavily male‐biased (1997–2.07:1; 1998–1.86:1). We speculated this bias resulted from habitat limitations, intraspecific competition for winter food, landowner imposed limits on gobbler harvest, and higher gobbler than hen survival rates during severe winter weather events. Beginning with the fall 1997 season, we increased harvest pressure on males by increasing fall and spring permit numbers and by instituting bearded turkey only seasons in the fall. Survey data indicated flocks were female biased (0.67:1) by 1999. In situations where turkey habitat is limited, we suggest that managers modify season structure to increase male harvest once flock classification surveys result in a gobbler:hen ratio ≥0.75:1. |
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| ISSN: | 2328-5540 |