Hunting Wild Turkeys
With eyesight that puts an eagle to shame and an all-too-often reluctance to come within range despite the lively “conversation” between bird and a hunter’s slate call, spring turkey seasons are a challenge that see camo-clad, shotgunners head to the woods and fields in droves.
There are four subspecies in the Lower 48. The Eastern is the most prolific, having made a stunning comeback over the last decades—with lots of help from people like those at the National Wild Turkey Federation—after near decimation in the early 1900s. You’ll find it almost everywhere in the Eastern U.S. and even into Canada. The Osceola turkey is on the other end, with the most limited distribution and germane only to South Florida. North and west in the ponderosa pines of states from New Mexico to South Dakota you’ll find the Merriam’s subspecies with its distinguishing white bands of rump and tail end feathers, while the windy plains from Texas to Utah are the range of the Rio Grande.
Check Out some of these Turkey Hunting Tips
Find more information about turkeys from our friends at the National Wild Turkey Federation. The NWTF’s Turkey Hunting 101 is considered the premier educational tool to learn everything you need to know about wild turkeys, their behavior and planning a successful hunt.
Turkey Hunting Regulations During Pandemic
As states scramble to slow the spread of COVID-19 and enact a wide range of regulations to enforce social distance, many hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreators are left wondering what they’re allowed to do. It can be a little tricky, so be sure to stay on the right side of the law and regulations. MeatEater has been keeping a close eye on what the restrictions mean to hunters and anglers alike. They’re updating it as often as possible, so check it out.
If You Can Safely Bring a +ONE
Every hunter wants to make the most of each day they can get into the woods and fields. The pandemic made it even trickier. Still, hunting is open for the most part. Get out, and if possible, take someone else and join NSSF’s +OneSM Movement. Chances are every hunter knows someone else who is itching to get out of the house and now is the perfect time to introduce someone new to the hunting heritage.
Representatives from Henry Repeating Arms, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Division of Fish & Wildlife, and USFWS have joined forces to actively engage in osprey population surveys and banding efforts. These initiatives provide a firsthand perspective on the tangible results of the excise tax contributions. The restoration efforts have led to a remarkable increase in osprey nests, from a mere 50 to over 700, showcasing the effectiveness of dedicated funding and collaborative partnerships.
1. Public Lands and Wildlife Management Areas: One of the best and most accessible options for hunting collared doves ethically is on public lands and wildlife management areas. These areas are often managed by state or federal agencies, and hunting regulations are strictly enforced to ensure sustainable practices.