Michigan DNR Wants Your Help Spotting Wild Turkeys This Summer
The Michigan DNR is asking all Michiganders to chip in this year as they attempt to track the state's wild turkey population.
The "Wild Turkey Brood Survey" is "a community science effort", according to the DNR. Scientists are hoping to get a better understanding of how well turkeys are reproducing in Michigan.
How Do Michiganders Participate in the Wild Turkey Brood Survey?
Participating is simple. If you spot a hen turkey wandering around with her babies, let the DNR know. They make it easy with a simple form on their website.
READ MORE: Michigan Fall Turkey Tags Now Over the Counter
The DNR is asking for you to report any turkey broods (a hen and at least one baby) that you see between July 1 and August 31, 2026.
Never Saw Wild Turkeys as a Kid? You're Not Alone
The first time that I saw a group of wild turkeys in my neighborhood (in the middle of the city), I was kind of perplexed. I grew up in the U.P., which is seemingly where you'll find every type of wildlife that Michigan has to offer, but I never saw wild turkeys as a kid. Turns out, there's a reason.
How Wild Turkeys Were Brought Back From Extinction in Michigan
Around the year 1900, wild turkeys became locally extinct in Michigan, according to Mackinac State Historic Parks. They were successfully reintroduced to Michigan in Allegan County back in the 1950s, starting with just 50 birds that had been brought in from Pennsylvania.
In 2025, the National Wild Turkey Federation reported that there were over 200,000 wild turkeys across the state.
50 Birds Around Michigan You Know But Don't Know
Gallery Credit: Tommy McNeill
More From Mix 95.7
