Exploring Merriam's Wild Turkey: A Guide to Best Hunting States

The Merriam's Wild Turkey, scientifically known as Meleagris gallopavo merriami, is a subspecies of the wild turkey that can be found in various regions of North America. This particular subspecies is named after Clinton Hart Merriam, a renowned American biologist who played a significant role in the field of ornithology.

The range of the Merriam's turkey spans across several states in the United States, including New Mexico, Arizona, California, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Texas, and Nevada. Additionally, they can also be found in Canadian provinces such as British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

Adult male Merriam's turkeys, also known as gobblers or toms, can reach heights of up to 4 feet and weigh over 20 pounds. They possess striking physical features, including a fan-shaped tail with distinct feathers. In comparison, adult females, known as hens, are almost as tall as the toms but generally weigh between 8 to 12 pounds.

When it comes to hunting Merriam's turkeys, certain states are considered prime locations due to their higher populations of this subspecies. New Mexico, in particular, boasts the largest population of Merriam's turkeys compared to any other subspecies. Wyoming is also highly recommended by many turkey hunters for its abundance of Merriam's turkeys. Montana, South Dakota, and Colorado are other states known for their thriving Merriam's turkey populations.

One way to distinguish a Merriam's turkey is by examining the coloration of its tail feathers. Generally, Merriam's turkeys have more white coloration on the ends of their tail feathers, while Rio Grande turkeys, another subspecies, tend to have a more tan appearance. However, it is important to note that determining the exact sub-species solely based on visual appearance can be challenging.

The Merriam's Wild Turkey is a fascinating subspecies of the wild turkey found in various regions of North America. Its distinctive physical features and wide range make it a popular target for turkey hunters. While certain states have higher populations of Merriam's turkeys, it is important to consult local regulations and guidelines before embarking on a hunting expedition.

What States Have Merriam Turkeys?

The Merriam's Wild Turkey, scientifically known as Meleagris gallopavo merriami, can be found in several states in the United States and provinces in Canada. The following states are known to have populations of Merriam turkeys:

1. New Mexico
2. Arizona
3. California
4. Colorado
5. Utah
6. Wyoming
7. Nebraska
8. South Dakota
9. North Dakota
10. Montana
11. Idaho
12. Oregon
13. Washington
14. Texas
15. Nevada

In addition to these states, Merriam turkeys can also be found in certain provinces in Canada, including:

1. British Columbia
2. Alberta
3. Saskatchewan
4. Manitoba

These regions provide suitable habitats for Merriam turkeys, allowing them to thrive and reproduce. It's important to note that while these states and provinces are known to have populations of Merriam turkeys, their distribution within these areas may vary.

How Big Do Merriam Turkeys Get?

Merriam turkeys, also known as Merriam's turkeys, are a species of wild turkey found primarily in the mountainous regions of the western United States. When fully grown, adult male Merriam turkeys, known as gobblers or toms, can reach heights of up to 4 feet. In terms of weight, these adult males can weigh more than 20 lbs, making them quite large birds. On the other hand, adult female Merriam turkeys, known as hens, are almost as tall as the toms but are generally smaller in size. Hens typically weigh between 8 to 12 lbs, which is significantly lighter than their male counterparts.

To summarize:

Merriam turkey size:
– Adult males (gobblers/toms): Up to 4 feet tall and weighing more than 20 lbs.
– Adult females (hens): Almost as tall as the toms, but weigh between 8 to 12 lbs.

Please note that these size ranges are approximate and can vary slightly depending on individual turkeys and specific subpopulations.

What State Is Best For Merriam Turkey Hunting?

When it comes to Merriam turkey hunting, several states stand out as top destinations. These states have abundant populations of Merriam's turkeys and offer excellent hunting opportunities. Here are five states that are considered the best for Merriam turkey hunting:

1. New Mexico: New Mexico has the highest population of Merriam's turkeys compared to any other subspecies. The state offers vast public lands and a variety of habitats, making it an ideal destination for turkey hunters.

2. Wyoming: Wyoming is often considered a premier destination for Merriam turkey hunting. The state has large numbers of Merriam's turkeys, and its vast open spaces provide ample room for hunting. Wyoming also offers a variety of public hunting areas and outfitters that cater to turkey hunters.

3. Montana: Montana is another state known for its healthy population of Merriam's turkeys. The state's diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and prairies, provide a range of hunting opportunities. Hunters can find both public and private lands to pursue their turkey hunting goals.

4. South Dakota: South Dakota is home to a significant number of Merriam's turkeys, making it a popular choice for turkey hunters. The state's mix of rolling prairies and wooded areas offers a diverse hunting experience. South Dakota also provides several public hunting areas, giving hunters plenty of options.

5. Colorado: Colorado is known for its abundant wildlife, and Merriam's turkeys are no exception. The state offers a mix of public and private lands for hunting, with a variety of terrain and habitats. Turkey hunters in Colorado can enjoy a challenging and rewarding hunting experience.

These states – New Mexico, Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, and Colorado – are widely regarded as the best for Merriam turkey hunting. Each state offers a unique hunting experience with ample populations of Merriam's turkeys and diverse landscapes. Whether you prefer public or private lands, these states provide excellent opportunities for a successful and memorable turkey hunting adventure.

What Is The Difference Between A Merriam Turkey And A Rio Grande Turkey?

The Merriam turkey and the Rio Grande turkey are two sub-species of wild turkeys that can be found in different regions of North America. While they share similarities, there are distinct differences between the two.

1. Habitat:
– Merriam turkey: This sub-species is commonly found in mountainous regions, particularly in the western parts of the United States, including the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada.
– Rio Grande turkey: These turkeys are primarily found in the central and western parts of the United States, specifically in areas with open grasslands, savannas, and brushy areas. They are also found in parts of northern Mexico.

2. Appearance:
– Merriam turkey: They have a lighter overall coloration, with white tips on their tail feathers. Their plumage tends to be more grayish or silverish in tone.
– Rio Grande turkey: They have a more tan or brownish overall coloration, with less pronounced white tips on their tail feathers. Their plumage tends to be more bronze or copper in tone.

3. Size:
– Both sub-species are similar in size, with adult males, or toms, weighing around 18-25 pounds, and adult females, or hens, weighing around 8-12 pounds.

4. Behavior:
– Merriam turkey: They are known to inhabit higher elevations and are adapted to colder climates. They are more likely to roost in trees and are often found in forested areas.
– Rio Grande turkey: They are adapted to drier, open habitats and are more commonly found in grasslands and agricultural areas. They tend to roost on the ground or in low shrubs.

5. Range:
– Merriam turkey: Their range extends from the western parts of the United States, including states like Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.
– Rio Grande turkey: They are found in the central and western parts of the United States, including states like Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska, as well as parts of northern Mexico.

While both the Merriam turkey and the Rio Grande turkey belong to the wild turkey family, they differ in terms of habitat, appearance, behavior, and range. Understanding these differences can help in identifying and appreciating the unique characteristics of each sub-species.

Conclusion

The Merriam's Wild Turkey is a subspecies of the wild turkey that is found in various states across the western United States and parts of Canada. It is known for its distinctive white coloration on the ends of its tail feathers, making it easily distinguishable from other subspecies.

The best states for Merriam's turkey hunting include New Mexico, Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, and Colorado. New Mexico is particularly known for having a high population of Merriam's turkeys compared to other subspecies. Wyoming is also a popular destination for Merriam's turkey hunting, with its vast wilderness and abundance of these birds.

Adult male Merriam's turkeys, known as gobblers or toms, can reach heights of up to 4 feet and weigh over 20 lbs. Adult females, or hens, are slightly smaller, standing almost as tall as the toms but weighing between 8 to 12 lbs.

The Merriam's Wild Turkey is a prized game bird for hunters due to its unique coloration and its challenging nature. Whether you are an avid hunter or simply admire the beauty of these majestic birds, encountering a Merriam's turkey in its natural habitat is always a memorable experience.