Wild Turkeys
Wild turkeys were first introduced to Manitoba in 1958 at a farm site south of Miami, led by a coalition of dedicated local game and fish organizations known as Wild Gobblers Unlimited, with support from the provincial government. Flocks quickly established themselves on the landscape after the initial introductions of imported birds, allowing for wildlife managers and volunteers to initiate an annual trap and transfer program where turkeys were trapped from healthy flocks and released into new areas. This program, along with natural dispersal has resulted in an established population that covers much of southern Manitoba.
Manitoba continues to partner with wildlife clubs to expand wild turkey range and bolster populations across southern part of the province. Check out the following documents to learn more about the annual trap and transfer program:
Manitoba Wild Turkey Trap and Transfer Program 2022/23 Report
Manitoba Application to Obtain Wild Turkey for Release
While many residents of the province enjoy the hunting and viewing opportunities that turkeys provide, in some situations they can come into conflict with people. The Coexisting with Wild Turkeys document provides tips on things that you can do to reduce wild turkey conflict.
Wild Turkey Hunting
Fall and spring hunting seasons are offered to Manitoba residents in twenty Game Hunting Areas (GHAs), including a special youth licence and season. On average approximately 1,500 Manitobans purchase wild turkey hunting licences each year, with healthy populations and harvesting opportunity being found in many areas. More information on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and wild turkey hunting seasons can be found in the Manitoba Hunting Guide and Wildlife Lands Interactive Map. The 2023 provincial wild turkey harvest report can also be found below:
Manitoba 2023 Wild Turkey Harvest Report
History and Research
Check out the documents below to learn more about the history of the introduction of wild turkeys to Manitoba, and research that was conducted in the Pembina Valley:
A History of Wild Gobblers Unlimited
Female Eastern Wild Turkey Movement and Habitat Use in the Pembina Valley, Manitoba
Survival and Reproduction of Female Eastern Wild Turkeys in the Pembina Valley, Manitoba
Report a Wild Turkey Band
If you harvested or found a banded wild turkey, please submit the following information in the space below:
