Environment DEC
From the November 2005 issue
Turkey Season in Full Fall Swing
Turkey hunting season is in effect throughout New York State, having begun on October 1 in the eastern part of the state and on October 22 in western areas. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan said, "I encourage hunters to remember the most important part of a successful season-safety. Before going afield, all hunters should review the hunting safety guidelines contained in DEC's Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide 2005-2006."
Fall 2005 Outlook
The eastern wild turkey can grow to 4 feet tall and weigh more than 20 pounds (Photo courtesy of US Fish and Wildlife)
During fall 2004, hunters took an estimated 12,200 birds after several years of average or below average wild turkey production in New York State. Hunting opportunities and harvest are expected to increase this year because of excellent production this summer. DEC compiles data on turkey populations during August of each year, and while the data have not been analyzed yet, preliminary indications are that nesting success was well above average.
Spring 2005 Season
The spring 2005 harvest estimate is not available yet, but hunter reports of birds taken suggest that harvest was similar to the 26,300 birds taken in spring 2004. The 2005 spring hunting season also featured New York State's second youth hunt for wild turkey, held April 23-24. Approximately 6,800 youth hunters (12-15 years of age) participated in this special opportunity, and they took an estimated 1,161 turkeys. Results of a survey conducted after the youth hunt indicated that it was again very well received by the youth hunters and their parents.Mandatory Harvest Reporting
Harvest reporting requirements have changed over the years, but hunters are reminded that they are required by DEC regulation to report any turkeys they shoot. Any hunter who has taken a turkey must fill out the tag which comes with their hunting permit and immediately attach it to any turkey shot. The hunter must also, within 48 hours of taking the animal, report the harvest via the DECALS phone reporting system, 1-866-GAME-RPT, and provide the information requested during the call.
Turkey Hunting Safety
Hunting safety should be practiced throughout the fall turkey season, as it should be during any hunting season. Some important safety tips for turkey hunting include the following:
- Refrain from stalking turkeys; most turkey hunting injuries happen when hunters stalk one another.
- Avoid wearing turkey colors of red, white or blue.
- Assume that anything that sounds like a turkey is another turkey hunter.
- Wrap an orange vest around a tree near your calling location to let other hunters know you are there, and call with a large tree at your back.
- Remain still when you see another hunter, but speak up in a loud, clear voice to identify yourself.
- Use caution when carrying a decoy or harvested bird in the field; keep it covered if possible.
