Wild Turkey Habitat Gets a Boost as Restoration Project in Illinois Completes
EDGEFIELD, S.C. — A healthy forest is more than just trees; it’s a thriving ecosystem where diverse plant life supports wildlife from the ground up. However, invasive species like bush honeysuckle threaten that balance, outcompeting native plants and altering the critical structure that healthy native habitats provide. To combat this issue, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with funding from the Illinois NWTF State Chapter Super Fund, recently completed a large-scale bush honeysuckle removal project at Mackinaw River State Fish and Wildlife Area. This project aligns with the NWTF’s mission to conserve wild turkeys and their habitat while also preserving our hunting heritage.
Covering 600 acres of oak-hickory forests, the project focused on eliminating invasive bush honeysuckle, which had been aggressively encroaching into the understory. By removing this invasive shrub, the ILDNR is helping to restore the natural balance of the forest, increasing light penetration to the forest floor and promoting the regrowth of native herbaceous plants and young oak trees. This, in turn, improves habitat quality for a range of wildlife, especially wild turkeys, by enhancing nesting, brood-rearing and foraging opportunities.
“The State Wildlife Action Plan, overseen by ILDNR, is divided into campaigns and the NWTF is a primary partner in delivering upon the Forest and Woodlands Campaign,” said John Burk, NWTF district biologist for Iowa, Illinois and Missouri. “Open woodland restoration is a key feature within the campaign and a primary focus of our work in Illinois. Unfortunately, invasive species control has become a necessary and expensive step in the open woodland restoration process, making us a key partner for this important work. We typically assist with the contracting costs to conduct timber stand improvement and invasive species control, and DNR comes behind us with fire to ensure the restoration and maintenance process is complete. We annually have been doing similar work on state lands throughout Illinois, and we are making a difference.”
While wild turkeys stand to gain from these habitat improvements, they aren’t the only beneficiaries. Many species of conservation concern — such as the whip-poor-will, yellow-billed cuckoo, northern flicker, red-headed woodpecker, wood thrush, ovenbird, broad-winged hawk and red-shouldered hawk — are expected to see population boosts thanks to the restoration work. Healthier forests mean more insects, seeds and cover — critical resources for these birds and other wildlife.
Mackinaw River SFWA isn’t just a haven for wildlife; it’s also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers hunting opportunities for turkey, deer, dove and small game, as well as fishing. By restoring the forest and improving habitat, the project has the potential to enhance the overall hunting experience for sportsmen and women.
Even in its early stages, the project is showing promising results. ILDNR staff have already observed a flock of approximately 100 turkeys utilizing the treated area — a strong indication that the work is paying off. Moving forward, ILDNR will focus on maintaining these gains, managing early successional habitat and addressing any lingering patches of honeysuckle deeper within the woods.
Conservation efforts like this one are made possible through the continued support of hunters, outdoor enthusiasts and NWTF members. The funds raised at local NWTF events directly contribute to habitat restoration projects across Illinois and beyond. To find out how you can support similar initiatives and attend events near you, visit the NWTF website.