TWRA Releases 2025 Wild Turkey Summer Survey Results

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has released results from the 2025 Wild Turkey Summer Observational Survey, conducted from June through August. The annual survey, held since the 1980s with public participation beginning in 2022, collects data on wild turkey reproduction and population trends across the state.

Observations were submitted from 94 of Tennessee’s 95 counties, including reports from 92 TWRA staff members and 459 members of the public. The statewide index showed 2.2 poults per hen (PPH), slightly below the five-year average of 2.4 PPH. PPH measures the number of young turkeys observed relative to the number of hens and serves as an indicator of reproductive productivity. Productivity across turkey management units ranged from 1.5 to 2.1 PPH, with the northeast unit recording 2.6 PPH, possibly aided by a cicada hatch that provided additional food for hatching poults.

Results of the annual survey are used in TWRA’s adaptive harvest management process to guide decisions for managing wild turkeys. The agency thanked staff and volunteers who contributed observations.

TWRA encourages the public to view full wild turkey status reports and summaries of previous years in the Wild Turkey Hunting section of its website.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency manages and conserves the state’s fish and wildlife resources and promotes public safety through law enforcement and safety education.Top of Form