NWTF and Idaho Fish and Game Partner to Relocate Wild Turkeys, Restoring Balance in South-Central Idaho

Wild turkeys were first introduced into south-central Idaho in the late 1980s; however, this population has faced challenges in recent years, with habitat loss caused by multiple wildfires, genetic isolation and other environmental pressures contributing to a significant decline. In 2022, Idaho Fish and Game took action to address these challenges by supplementing the population with 36 wild turkeys from southeastern Idaho.

This proactive effort has been a success. Over the past two years, the wild turkey population has rebounded significantly. This increase, though, has led to winter depredation on agricultural lands near a local Wildlife Management Area. To mitigate these challenges and further expand wild turkey populations to suitable areas, Idaho Fish and Game partnered with the NWTF to relocate some of the birds to a site where the NWTF and partners have implemented extensive habitat restoration projects.

The relocation site, enhanced through collaborative habitat restoration efforts, provides an ideal environment for the birds. Last spring, trees were planted at the site, supported by Groasis Waterboxxes, funded through the Idaho Fish and Game Community Challenge Grant and the NWTF Idaho State Super Fund.

To prevent further depredation and support a sustainable population, Idaho Fish and Game and the NWTF identified two trapping locations near the management area. After pre-baiting the sites, walk-in traps were set. Over the course of the effort, a total of 37 wild turkeys were safely trapped, including 17 hens, 18 jakes and two large toms.

“Every bird was safely relocated with no injuries or losses during the process,” said Joe Foster, NWTF Idaho State Chapter president. “When our young volunteers figured out the process, we got kicked out of the traps and they took over. It was great to see the commitment soar and a really great success for all involved.”

The NWTF South Hills Strutters Chapter, along with NWTF Idaho, continues to be a driving force in habitat restoration and wild turkey conservation efforts. By collaborating with Idaho Fish and Game, the NWTF is working to secure the future of wild turkeys and other wildlife species across Idaho.

About the National Wild Turkey Federation

Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 24 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.