FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE DISTRIBUTION OF WILD TURKEYS IN MICHIGAN
Abstract: Prior to European settlement, wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) were present in Michigan south of a line from Saginaw Bay to the mouth of the Muskegon River. Habitat loss and overexploitation during settlement led to the extirpation of turkeys from Michigan in the late 1800s. Several rest...
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| Main Author: | |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Wiley
2005-01-01
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| Series: | Wildlife Society Bulletin |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2328-5540.2005.tb00322.x |
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| Summary: | Abstract: Prior to European settlement, wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) were present in Michigan south of a line from Saginaw Bay to the mouth of the Muskegon River. Habitat loss and overexploitation during settlement led to the extirpation of turkeys from Michigan in the late 1800s. Several restoration attempts followed in the early 1900s; however, it was not until the mid to latter part of the last century that restoration efforts were successful. As a result, wild turkeys currently occupy much of their ancestral range and beyond, providing Michigan residents with quality hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities on both public and private lands. The expansion of wild turkey range has led wildlife biologists to debate how far north turkeys should be introduced and actively managed. Northern range expansion in Michigan can be attributed to alteration of Michigan's native habitats and human activities that promote turkey survival throughout the year. A literature review was conducted to determine how the major limiting factors of winter weather and lack of suitable habitat influence wild turkey survival in northern regions of Michigan. These limiting factors may be overcome in some portions of the state through habitat management programs that mitigate winter loss. |
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| ISSN: | 2328-5540 |