Distribution and Population Estimates of Ohio Wild Turkeys (Meleagris Gallopavo), 1981-82

Abstract

This survey assembles all of the occupied range data on the wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) in Ohio and places population estimates on this distribution. Population estimates for the 1982 winter-spring period ranged from 5,374 to 15,354 over 7,677 km2 of range. The survey showed turkeys in 12 counties that were not open for spring hunting (Ashland, Ashtabula, Belmont, Columbiana, Coshocton, Fairfield, Harrison, Knox, Licking, Muskingum, Trumbull, and Tuscarawas). Harvest recommendations for future seasons should consider these counties. Further, wild turkey transplants to unoccupied range should continue and be restricted to areas devoid of game farm turkeys.