State biologists are trying to better understand the wild turkey. The Department of Environmental Conservation is asking citizens to record their observations of turkeys this summer.

Since 1996, the DEC has conducted the Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey to estimate the number of wild turkey poults (young turkey born this year) per hen statewide. Weather, predation, and habitat conditions during the breeding and brood-rearing seasons can all significantly impact nest success, hen survival, and poult survival, according to a release from the DEC.

This index helps DEC to gauge reproductive success and predict the number of turkeys hunters will kill in the fall.

During the month of August, survey participants record the sex and age composition of all flocks of wild turkeys observed during normal travel.

Those interested in participating can download a Summer Wild Turkey Sighting Survey form along with instructions and the data sheet directly at http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/48732.html. Survey cards may also be obtained by contacting a regional DEC office, calling (518) 402-8883, or by e-mailing  (type “Turkey Survey” in the subject line).

Participants may also submit observations online. Visit the link above and click “Summer Wild Turkey Sighting On-line Report.”