| The Rio Grande Wild Turkey (RGWT, Meleagris gallopavo intermedia ) is a large gallinaceous bird native to Texas that requires a variety of cover types to maintain a stable population. Habitat management is therefore a critical component for RGWT populations. The purpose of this study is to generate a habitat appraisal guide to evaluate habitat in the south Texas plains region for its suitability for RGWTs. The guide will systematically evaluate current habitat conditions and determine limiting factors for RGWT. The information provided will enable biologists to work with landowners to determine if their land is suitable habitat for RGWT and consider management suggestions to enhance habitat. Vegetation characteristics for roosting, nesting, brood rearing, and feeding habitat will be evaluated to determine what parameters in each category are needed to provide adequate habitat for wild turkeys. The results will be provided to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to help assess RGWT habitat in south Texas. |
