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Connecticut Conservation Projects

Nesting Ecology of Wild Turkeys Investigated

NESTING ECOLOGY OF WILD TURKEY INVESTIGATED

During one winter in eastern Connecticut, a group of female turkeys could be seen wearing backpack radio transmitters. Thanks to Wildlife Forever, wildlife biologists with Connecticut's Department of Environmental Protection were able to study the nesting success of wild turkeys under different conditions. Over 40 hens were trapped and equipped with radio transmitters. Differences in nesting, productivity, birth rate, and mortality factors were studied.In the end, the researchers were able to determine the best methods for managing wild turkeys and their habitat in eastern Connecticut.

RESTORING FISH HABITAT AT MERRICK BROOK

An ambitious habitat restoration project has given trout and salmon a new lease on life, thanks to Wildlife Forever. Located in eastern Connecticut, Merrick Brook has a rich history of excellent fishing. However, starting in the early 1980s, erosion began reducing the amount of in-stream habitat, resulting in poor trout production. In one section of the stream, near the town of Scotland, severe erosion caused the shoreline to collapse. To turn things around, Wildlife Forever and the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection joined forces. Boulders, root wads, logs, rock weirs, and vegetation were placed at strategic locations. Studies have shown that the project was a success. The channel and streambank have been stabilized, boding well for both fish and anglers in Merrick Brook.