UGA studying wild turkey decline in the southeast

Nov 21, 2012 - 05:30
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ATHENS, Ga. — Rocket-powered nets and radio transmitters are among the tools University of Georgia researchers are using to determine what's behind the decline in the wild turkeys population of the southeast.

The Athens Banner-Herald (http://bit.ly/Uk7lGB ) reported Wednesday that wildlife agencies have seen a regional decline in wild turkeys, and that there are about 7 million of the birds left. Encroaching development, chemical herbicide and natural predators could be factors in the population shift. Researchers told the newspaper that wildfires do not appear to be a leading cause in the decline.

The wild turkey population dropped in the late 1800s and early 1900s, then rebounded in the second half of the 20th century as forests that were cut down in the 1900s grew back.

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Information from: Athens Banner-Herald, http://www.onlineathens.com

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Mike Gallagher Mike Gallagher is a Georgia-based freelance journalist covering local news, community developments, and regional issues that matter most to residents across the state. Writing for Georgianewsday.com since 2016, Mike has built a reputation for clear, balanced reporting and a strong connection to the communities he serves. His work spans city council decisions, school board updates, small business features, public safety reports, and statewide policy changes. In addition to local coverage, Mike occasionally reports on state politics and national headlines, offering readers context on how broader decisions impact Georgia communities. Known for his steady, fact-driven approach, Mike prioritizes accuracy, fairness, and accessibility in every story. Whether covering a town hall meeting or breaking political developments, he aims to inform readers with clarity and integrity. Outside the newsroom, Mike remains actively engaged in Georgia’s civic landscape, always seeking the next story that shapes the state’s future.