Abstract
Reintroduction of wild turkeys into northwestern Arkansas was studied at 10 release sites in the late 1950's. Native birds trapped in southern Arkansas were released at five study areas, and birds from wild Pennsylvania stock reared in captivity were released in five other areas. Although both types of turkeys reproduced, most populations of captivity-raised turkeys decreased sharply whereas all populations of wild-trapped birds exhibited marked increases. Range extension averaged nearly 2.5 miles per year in expanding wild-trapped populations. Captivity-raised birds were comparatively tame and often were found near human habitation. Current expanding turkey populations in the Arkansas Ozarks undoubtedly are due to the introductions of wild-trapped birds.
Recommended Citation
James, Douglas A.; Fooks, L. Glen; and Preston, John R.
(1983)
"Success of Wild-Trapped Compared to Captivity-Raised Birds in Restoring Wild Turkey Populations to Northwestern Arkansas,"
Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science: Vol. 37, Article 12.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.uark.edu/jaas/vol37/iss1/12
