Food is important as hens need higher energy and protein levels for over-winter survival and for the different phases of reproduction, including egg laying, incubation, and brooding.
During years early spring weather is mild, abundant plant growth appears to help stimulate the reproductive process early. Weather can also be a detrimental factor for turkey populations, especially if conditions are wet and cold over several days.
For the 2011-2012 season turkey populations in Virginia may have experienced high survival rates due to good fall foods and a mild spring. Early spring green-up likely resulted in earlier than normal broods.
source: Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries
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