Vermont's wild turkeys are now well-established throughout the state as a result of scientific wildlife management practices that started in 1969 when the birds were brought back to Vermont after they disappeared in the 1800s.

Vermont wild turkey hunters had safe and successful spring and fall hunting seasons in 2014, according to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.

A total of 6,414 turkeys were taken by hunters during Vermont's three hunting seasons - the spring youth hunt, the regular May spring season, and the fall turkey hunt.

Young turkey hunters mentored by experienced hunters took 554 bearded turkeys, which are almost always males, during the youth turkey hunt on the weekend before the regular spring season.

Hunters took 4,628 bearded turkeys in the May 1-31 regular spring turkey season.

Fall turkey hunting during October and November produced 1,232 turkeys of either sex, which was double that of 2013 and one of the highest fall harvests since Vermont's wild turkey population was restored in the early 1970's.

"Although the total harvest is less than last year's record, I am pleased that it is higher than average," said wild turkey project leader Amy Alfieri. "This year's harvest number shows that Vermont's wild turkey population at this time can sustain itself through long, cold winter's like that of last year."

Vermont's wild turkey population is estimated at 45,000 to 60,000 birds.

Vermont Fish & Wildlife also reports that no turkey hunting-related shooting incidents were reported for the fourth consecutive year.

For more information regarding Vermont's wild turkeys visit Vermont Fish &Wildlife's website at: www.vtfishandwildlife.com.



Media Contacts: Amy Alfieri, 802-759-2398; Mark Scott, 802-777-4217