Environment DEC
From the September 2003 issue
Hunters Enjoy Successful Spring Turkey Season
Turkey hunters in New York State enjoyed a successful spring season despite a slight drop in numbers harvested. A total of 7,117 turkeys, or about five percent less than last year, were harvested during the spring 2003 season.
A variety of factors affected the harvest. Rainy spring weather, especially during the last 10 days of the turkey season, may have reduced the number of hunters and the time they spent afield. DEC reports indicate that the harvest actually was running ahead of last year's take until the end of the season when the numbers fell behind.
Uncertain Fall Season
Predictions for the fall turkey season are uncertain. Fall turkey populations result from both the spring population and the current year's reproductive success. Turkey reproduction is highly variable, and the success of this spring's nesting will have a major impact on turkey populations during the fall hunting season.
Turkeys, which were absent from New York State for more than 100 years, have rebounded in the past 50 years because of habitat changes and restoration programs. The wild turkey is second only to deer as the most popular game species in the state, with more than 250,000 turkey hunters licensed in New York.
Proposed Youth Turkey Hunt
DEC is seeking the public's input on a proposal for a youth turkey hunt that could begin as early as spring 2004. If implemented, the hunt would occur the weekend before the regular opening day for spring turkey hunting. Junior hunters, accompanied by licensed adults, would be allowed to take one bearded bird prior to May 1. Comments about this proposal should be sent to NYSDEC, Small Game Section, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4754.
