The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has unveiled the findings from its 2025 Wild Turkey Summer Observational Survey, which took place from June to August. This annual survey, a staple since the 1980s, began incorporating public participation in 2022, allowing citizens to contribute valuable data regarding wild turkey reproduction and population dynamics throughout the state.
In total, observations were gathered from 94 of Tennessee’s 95 counties, with contributions coming from 92 TWRA staff members and 459 engaged members of the public. The overall index revealed an average of 2.2 poults per hen (PPH), which is slightly lower than the five-year average of 2.4 PPH. This PPH figure is crucial as it reflects the number of young turkeys observed in relation to the number of hens, serving as a key indicator of reproductive success. The productivity levels varied across different turkey management units, ranging from 1.5 to 2.1 PPH. Notably, the northeast unit reported a higher figure of 2.6 PPH, likely benefiting from a cicada hatch that provided additional nourishment for the newly hatched poults.
The insights gained from this annual survey play a vital role in TWRA’s adaptive harvest management strategy, which informs decisions regarding the management of wild turkey populations. The agency expressed its gratitude to both staff and volunteers who participated in the observation process.
For those interested in a deeper understanding of wild turkey populations, TWRA encourages the public to explore comprehensive reports and summaries from previous years, available in the Wild Turkey Hunting section of its official website. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is dedicated to the management and conservation of the state’s fish and wildlife resources while also promoting public safety through law enforcement and educational initiatives.