SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is asking hunters, landowners, and outdoor enthusiasts to help track wild turkey populations this summer by reporting sightings through the Illinois Wild Turkey Survey. Officials said reports should include the number of adult males, adult females, poults, and any birds of unknown age or sex. The data helps the state monitor reproduction, poult survival, and population trends and is used alongside harvest reports, permit data, weather, and habitat conditions. The survey runs through August, with July and August considered key months for collecting consistent information used in annual analysis. The program has moved from a postcard system to an online reporting tool through the Hunt Illinois website, which also provides information on hunting seasons and wildlife management.
https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/dab52803edd24b61bfbc6eb8110db0bb?open=menu