A Conservation Success Story
Sixty years ago, wild turkeys would have qualified as a "rare and endangered
species" in Missouri. By 1952, the state's turkey population had dropped
to fewer than 2,500 birds in 31 counties. Just eight years later, thanks to
intensive conservation efforts, Missouri opened its first turkey hunting season.
A record spring harvest occurred in 2004, when hunters checked 60,744 turkeys.
We now have a turkey population that declines or increases mainly in response
to spring and summer weather conditions. Recent wet and cool springs have resulted
in fewer poults being recruited into the fall population. Drier and warmer
springs will result in a higher turkey numbers.
Outlook Is Good for 2009 Fall Turkey Hunting
There’s good news for turkey hunters in much of the state this fall--poult production improved over last year’s near record low. Download the Fall 2009 Turkey Hunting Outlook.
Next Generation of Conservation
Talk About Outdoor Recreation
Whether your idea of outdoor fun is birding, hunting or fishing, you'll find timely tips and talk about it here. Send your comments and follow related links.
Turkey Seasons
| Season | Open Date | Close Date |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey Youth |
Sat, Apr 10, 2010 | Sun, Apr 11, 2010 |
| Turkey Spring |
Mon, Apr 19, 2010 | Sun, May 9, 2010 |
| Turkey Archery |
Wed, Sep 15, 2010 | TBA |
| Turkey Fall Firearms |
Fri, Oct 1, 2010 | Sun, Oct 31, 2010 |
Turkey Harvest Summary
Detailed information on turkey harvests - including high counties.
