DO PEOPLE HUNT WILD TURKEYS?
The wild turkey, like other “gallinaceous” or chicken-like birds such as ring-necked pheasant, ruffed grouse, and bobwhite quail, is considered a “game bird”. These non-migratory birds are regulated by the various state governments and are not subject to Federal oversight under the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The states manage recreational hunting through a combination of statutes and regulations including hunting licenses and special permits, restricted seasons and bag limits, limited hunting hours, open and closed zones, prohibitions on certain methods of take, and sex restrictions (e.g., male-only in many spring turkey seasons). These provisions, coupled with biological research and management, are designed to allow interested persons to enjoy and participate in a traditional cultural activity, while maintaining and perpetuating a diverse and abundant resource for the enjoyment of future generations. Participation in hunting, as a recreational pursuit, is an intensely personal c
