Manitoulin Going to the Birds?

Wild turkey and pheasant reintroductions on Manitoulin Island could get the green light if an MNR environmental assessment proves favourable.

Don Mark, an information specialist with the MNR's Northeast Region, said the assessment, which could cost from $1- to $3 million and take up to three years to complete, was launched earlier this year. Among other things, it will determine what the island's agricultural community and general population wants, potential food and habitat, and the possible impact by turkeys on eight species of concern. The influence of pheasants on ruffed and sharp-tailed grouse populations will also be considered.

Currently, there are illegally released turkeys on the island. Several thousand pheasants, mostly from put-and take-hunts, have also established pockets of birds and are reproducing.

Terry Quinney, provincial manager of fish and wildlife services for the OFAH , argues that these reintroductions already have the support of residents and the assessment is unnecessary. "It is a total waste of money that could be put to better use," he said.

The provincial Wild Turkey Management Plan already considers the island to be within the ecological area suitable for wild turkeys, he says. Moreover, he adds, they're already there. As well, Michigan, which is at the same latitude and has similar ecological conditions, and nearby St. Joe's Island also support turkey populations.