Using thermal imaging cameras with radiotelemetry to locate roost sites of male wild turkeys

Abstract

Thermal imagery is a relatively new technology to the wildlife field. Researchers have begun testing whether this tool can be used to increase detection rates for various wildlife species. Little research has been conducted on roost-site selection of eastern wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris), partially because locating roosting birds and viewing them in forested environments is impractical. We evaluated the efficacy of ground-based thermal imaging combined with radiotelemetry to locate roosting male turkeys in southwestern Georgia, USA, 2011–2013. Using radiotelemetry and thermal imaging, we successfully collected data on 74 of 79 attempts (93.7%) to locate roosting male turkeys and identify the roost tree the bird was using. Compared with other methods of viewing roosting turkeys using thermal imagery, our methods were more successful. We recommend that researchers consider using ground-based thermal imaging to conduct more detailed studies on roost ecology of wild turkeys. © 2014 The Wildlife Society.