Survival and Reproduction of Eastern Wild Turkeys Relocated into the Post Oak Savannah of Texas

Relocated (N = 76) eastern wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) were released into the Post Oak Savannah of Texas in winters 1994 and 1995. Before release, each bird was fitted with a radio transmitter and numbered leg band. Mortality and reproduction were monitored through 1996 to determine survival and reproduction. First-year annual survival rates for gobblers and hens was 0.286 and 0.484, respectively. One of 4 study areas lost all gobblers within the first year. Mammalian predation (63.4%) was the primary cause of mortality. High post-release mortality was attributed to habitat unfamiliarity. Poult survival 2 weeks post-hatch was 0, resulting in the lowest reproductive success reported for this subspecies. Low reproductive success is attributable to unsuitable nesting and brooding habitat.

Publication date
Starting page
384
Ending page
396
ID
13614