John E. StysG. A. Hurst

Wild Turkey Use of Control-burned Loblolly Pine Plantations

Pine (Pinus spp.) plantations comprise a major habitat type in the Southeast, and burning is used for forest and wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) management. We studied turkey hen (N = 165) use of control-burned loblolly pine (P. taeda) plantations, July 1986-March 1991, in Kemper County, Mississippi. Generally, hen use of plantations during summer (Jul-Sep), fall (Oct—Dec), and winter (Jan-Mar) was equal to or less than available for plantations <1 year and 5:7 years since-burned. Use was equal to or greater than available for plantations 1-6 years since-burned. During spring (Apr-Jun...