Research from the University of Georgia and Louisiana State University shows that the personalities of male wild turkeys significantly influence their likelihood of survival during hunting season. By tracking 109 turkeys equipped with GPS collars, scientists found that bolder birds, who venture into open areas to attract mates, face higher mortality rates from both hunters and predators.
This study highlights how local habitat shapes risk-taking behaviors; for instance, hunters in Georgia often target bold turkeys near expansive fields, while in South Carolina, more cautious birds become prey due to limited habitat options. As these behavioral traits may be heritable, the findings raise important questions about the long-term effects on turkey populations and implications for wildlife management practices.
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