Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Award Date

1988

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Wildlife and Fisheries Science

First Advisor

Lester D. Flake

Second Advisor

Charles G. Scalet

Abstract

Seasonal movements, home range, and habitat use of wild turkeys in south-central South Dakota were investigated using radio telemetry from summer 1984 to winter 1986. Spring dispersal from wintering sites ranged from 0.2 to 5.8 km (x = 2.8 km). Non-nesting females moved significantly (P ~ 0.05) farther than males. Fall movements from summer to winter habitat ranged from o.o to 5.0 km (x = 2.2 km). Marked birds always returned to summer areas used in previous years. In contrast, wintering areas changed yearly among some individuals. Home ranges for all birds in summer ranged from 46. 7 ha to 485. 7 ha (x = 169.7 ha) while winter home ranges ranged from 43.9 ha to 145.3 ha (x = 102 .1 ha) • Adequate snow cover was absent over both winter sampling periods disallowing inferences concerning its effect on wintering home range. Turkeys selected home ranges with at least 45% forest cover in summer and 58% in winter even though overall forest cover was 38% in the study area. Summer habitat use was analyzed in relation to available habitat which included grassland, woodland, and cultivated areas. In general, summer habitat use was directed towards cultivated and wooded areas in the afternoon and grasslands in mornings and evenings. Winter habitat use was analyzed in relation to available habitat which included grassland, woodland, and farmstead-cultivated areas. Winter habitat use was directed towards woodlands near farmsteads.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Wild turkey -- South Dakota -- Habitat
Wild turkey -- South Dakota -- Migration

Description

Includes bibliographical references (pages 30-35)

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

46

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

No Copyright - Non-Commercial Use Only
http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-NC/1.0/

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