WILD TURKEY BROOD HABITAT USE IN RELATION TO PRESCRIBED BURNING AND RED‐COCKADED WOODPECKER MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Abstract: Thinning and spring burning are used in pine and pine‐hardwood forests to restore red‐cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis; RCW) habitat; however, concerns regarding impacts on non‐target species have arisen. We examined eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) brood habitat on 2 areas, one managed for RCW (Caston Creek Wildlife Management Area; CCWMA), and the other under traditional pine management (Leaf River Wildlife Management Area; LRWMA). Brood habitat use differed from availability on both areas. On CCWMA, mature pine stands managed for RCW (RCWP) were selected least relative to other available habitats. Ground cover conditions created by grasses may have impeded movement and foraging of young poults. Habitats used by broods on CCWMA were pole stands, fields, and regeneration. On LRWMA, broods selected hardwood, field, and pole stands. Broods used stands that were burned ≤3 years prior on both areas. In a study of nest site selection on CCWMA, turkeys used RCWP for nesting; therefore, we recommend interspersing RCW stands with wild turkey brood habitat. Interspersion will provide nesting and brood cover in close proximity while allowing managers to meet RCW habitat goals.

Keywords

• brood
• eastern wild turkey
• forest management
• growing season burn
• habitat
• Meleagris gallopavo silvestris