17: SEASONAL FOOD HABITS OF MERRIAM'S TURKEYS ON THE FORT APACHE INDIAN RESERVATION
ABSTRACT The seasonal feeding habits of Merriam's wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) were studied on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation over a period of 3 years. Comparative data were obtained from the Moqui District of the Kaibab National Forest. The study included analyses of crops an...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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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.tb00049.x |
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| Summary: | ABSTRACT The seasonal feeding habits of Merriam's wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) were studied on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation over a period of 3 years. Comparative data were obtained from the Moqui District of the Kaibab National Forest. The study included analyses of crops and droppings. Turkeys were found to be opportunists in their feeding habits. Grasses and forbs were important food items yearlong, especially in years of mast crop failures. Fruit‐ and mast‐producing species such as manzanita (Arctostaphylos pungens), skunkbush (Rhus trilobata), ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), and oak (Quercus spp.) added substantially to the seasonal diet, and juniper berries (Juniperus spp.) were utilized in the absence of other mast crops. Animal material (mostly insects) was consumed throughout the year but was more important during the summer months. |
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| ISSN: | 2328-5540 |