Restoration of the wild turkey in east Texas: simulation of alternative restocking strategies

Models that simulate population dynamics of relocated populations should pr ove useful during the restoration of extirpated species. One fundamental qu estion facing restoration ecologists attempting to restore wild turkey (Mel eagris gallopavo) populations is the number of birds to release per restora tion site. We describe the development of a simulation model capable of eva luating a variety of stocking strategies for eastern wild turkeys (Meleagri s gallopavo silvestris). Simulation results suggest that in the coniferous and deciduous forests of east Texas, supplemental (multiple) stockings do n ot use difficult-to-procure broodstock as effectively as initially stocking new sites. We also found that using juvenile females or a combination of 5 0% adult and 50% juvenile females significantly (P < 0.032) increased turke y survival. Based upon these data, it appears that biologists attempting to restore wild turkeys in east Texas should use the higher stocking rates we evaluated and greater than or equal to 50% juvenile females during release s. Models that simulate the dynamics of relocated populations benefit resto ration efforts by allowing restoration ecologists to evaluate various stock ing strategies quickly and inexpensively prior to initiating costly restora tion programs. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.