Across much of the country, wild turkey numbers are shifting. In some places, populations are strong. In others, hunters are noticing fewer gobbles and less activity. There’s a lot we don’t fully understand yet — and that’s exactly what the Wild Turkey DNA Initiative is trying to change.
This new effort brings together scientists, conservation organizations, and hunters to take a deeper look at the genetics of wild turkeys. The goal is simple: learn more so we can manage better.
And yes — hunters play a central role.
What the Initiative Is All About
The Wild Turkey DNA Initiative is a research project focused on gathering and studying genetic samples from harvested wild turkeys. The idea is to build a better understanding of:
- How different subspecies are distributed across the country
- Whether hybridization is happening in certain areas
- What unusual color phases might tell us about turkey genetics
- How genetically diverse populations are — and what that means for their health
This kind of information can help state agencies and conservation groups make smarter decisions about how to manage and protect wild turkey populations over time.
The project is modeled after the successful duckDNA program led by Ducks Unlimited. Now, with support from groups like NWTF, Ducks Unlimited, and researchers from the University of Texas at El Paso, it’s time for turkeys to get the same level of attention.
How Hunters Can Contribute
One of the strengths of this project is that it’s built around hunter participation. If you’re planning to hunt wild turkeys this spring, there’s a way to directly contribute to this research without much extra effort.
Here’s how it works:
1. Request a Free Sample Kit
Visit wildturkeydna.com and ask for a collection kit. There’s no charge.
2. Collect the Sample After Harvesting a Bird
The kit includes instructions for how to collect a small tissue sample — specifically from the tongue. It only takes a few minutes.
3. Send It In
Return the sample in the pre-labeled envelope, and you’re done.
4. Receive an Ancestry Report
Later, you’ll get a certificate with genetic information about your bird. It’ll show what subspecies it came from and if there are any signs of hybridization.
Why This Research Matters
At a glance, turkey genetics might seem like something for researchers and biologists. But it connects directly to the future of hunting.
By gathering enough data from across the country, scientists will be able to identify trends, track how populations are changing, and understand how different regions compare when it comes to turkey genetics. This information can help answer questions like:
- Are some populations more vulnerable due to low genetic diversity?
- Are subspecies boundaries shifting?
- Are color phase birds becoming more common, and why?
More importantly, it gives wildlife managers the evidence they need to adjust strategies — whether that’s modifying harvest regulations, improving habitat work, or focusing restoration efforts where they’re most needed.
The Cost: None
One thing worth emphasizing is that the entire process is free for hunters. The kits are covered by funding from the initiative’s partner organizations. There’s no cost to receive a kit or to return a sample.
If you care about the future of wild turkey hunting — and you want to be part of a project that’s doing real science — this is a simple, direct way to make a contribution.
The Organizations Behind It
Several well-respected groups are collaborating on the Wild Turkey DNA Initiative:
- Wild Turkey Lab – Led by Dr. Mike Chamberlain, this group shares research on turkey ecology and management.
- National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) – Long-time leaders in turkey conservation and habitat work.
- Ducks Unlimited – Their success with duckDNA helped lay the groundwork for this project.
- University of Texas at El Paso – The Lavretsky Lab is handling much of the DNA testing and research.
- Low Country Game Bird Foundation – A newer organization focused on upland bird conservation in the Southeast.
Each brings expertise and resources to make sure this isn’t just an idea — it’s a functioning, long-term effort.
Final Thoughts
The Wild Turkey DNA Initiative is a smart step forward for turkey conservation. It’s grounded in science, focused on long-term results, and built around the idea that hunters can and should play an active role in understanding the species we care about.
Participation doesn’t take much time, and it doesn’t cost anything. But it adds value — not just to the hunt, but to the future of wild turkey populations nationwide.
If you’re heading into the woods this spring, consider carrying a DNA kit with you. It’s a practical way to support something bigger, without stepping outside the traditions that make turkey hunting what it is.
You can learn more or request a kit at wildturkeydna.com.
