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 Maine's Deer Spy and Wild Turkey August Production Survey Community Science Projects are underway, and we need more eyes!
Deer Spy, and the Wild Turkey August Production Survey both invite community scientists to play a direct role in Maine's wildlife management. All good management starts with science, and all good science starts with data. That's where you come in!
If you enjoy watching wildlife from your window, spend any time exploring in the Maine outdoors, or want a reason to start, you can participate. You do the fun part watching the wildlife, and we'll do all the hard math when your numbers come in. Deal?
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 August 1 - September 30
Data collected by community scientists during Deer Spy helps biologists estimate the number of fawns added to the white-tailed deer population by the time hunting season begins each year. These recruitment patterns help inform management decisions made to maintain a healthy and sustainable population with opportunities for both wildlife watching and hunting. Your data makes a difference!
When you see deer anywhere in Maine, make note of:
- Location of observation
- Date and time of observation
- Number of adult females
- Number adult males
- Number of fawns
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 August 1 - 31
Maine's Wild Turkey August Production Survey helps our biologists monitor annual reproduction rates in Maine's wild turkey population. This information helps guide management decisions geared toward maintaining a healthy and sustainable population with plenty of opportunity for both wildlife watchers and hunters to enjoy and appreciate wild turkeys. It's easy to participate!
When you see wild turkeys anywhere in Maine, here's what you'll report :
- Location and date of observation
- Number of adult females
- Number of Adult males
- Number of poults
- Poult size relative to adult females
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Why Community Science?
MDIFW biologists use numerous methods to keep a finger on the pulse of Maine's white-tailed deer and wild turkey populations throughout the year. Our monitoring work is enhanced by the valuable local knowledge of Mainers with boots on the ground in all corners of the state. Community science is a powerful tool to amplify data collection capacity when it matters most.
With each observation submitted by hundreds of participants each year, our dataset becomes larger and patterns grow clearer, building our understanding of wildlife populations so we can fine-tune our strategies to meet management goals. That means healthy wildlife, balanced ecosystems, better viewing opportunities, reduced human-wildlife conflict, and sustainable harvest for generations to come.
Becoming a community scientist is more than just being an extra set of eyes and ears in the field. It's a fun addition to any outdoor adventure, and a rewarding avenue through which your passion for natural resources can have a real impact, Will you go all in for the Maine outdoors with us?
More information
More Community Science Projects in Maine
White-tailed deer in Maine
Maine's Wild Turkeys
Research and Management Reports
Maine's Big Game Management Plan
Big Game Harvest Data Dashboard
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