Wild turkey season opens today

Wild turkey season opens today
Permission to access private property and safety are hunters’ top priorities

Every spring, thousands of hunters take to the outdoors to participate in the spring wild turkey hunt. This year, the season opens on April 26 and runs until May 31 in many parts of southern Ontario. The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (O.F.A.H.) and the Ontario Conservation Officers Association (OCOA) remind hunters heading out this spring to be safe and to obtain permission to hunt on private property.

“Wild turkey season is eagerly anticipated by thousands of trained and licensed men and women, and is growing in popularity, thanks in large part to the generosity of landowners who grant hunters access to their private property,” said O.F.A.H. Executive Director, Mike Reader. “The majority of turkey hunting is done on private property, and responsible hunters seek permission well in advance of the season, and while enjoying their time in the field, hunt safely and respect the regulations.”

The eastern wild turkey, once completely removed from Ontario, has been successfully reintroduced to the province thanks to the efforts of many partners, including the O.F.A.H. and the Ministry of Natural Resources. Southern Ontario wild turkey populations are now estimated to be between 70,000 and 100,000 birds and the numbers are increasing.

“Hunters require permission to hunt on private land, and in most of southern Ontario it is illegal to shoot from or have a loaded firearm on public roads or on the right-of-way,” said OCOA President, Dan VanExan. “Our officers always investigate reports of trespassing and road hunting, and we encourage those hunting responsibly to report illegal activity. This will help keep everyone safe during the hunt.”

Anyone with information about a natural resources or public safety related crime is encouraged to call the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources violation reporting line at 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667), contact their local CO directly, or call Crime Stoppers at 1800-222-TIPS (8477).

For more information about natural resources regulations and enforcement, please visit the OCOA website at www.ocoa.ca, or contact your local Conservation Officer. To view or download the 2010 MNR wild turkey regulations, visit www.ontario.ca/hunting.

With over 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 660 member clubs, the O.F.A.H. is the largest nonprofit, charitable, fishing, hunting and conservation-based organization in Ontario, and the voice of anglers and hunters. Visit www.ofah.org for more information.

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