Wild Turkey Population by State 2026
Minimum Wild Turkey Population
State | Minimum Wild Turkey Population 2024↓ | Maximum Wild Turkey Population 2024 | Avg Turkeys Harvested 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Mississippi | 280,000 | 280,000 | 36,337 |
 | North Carolina | 270,000 | 270,000 | 24,074 |
 | California | 250,000 | ||
 | Kentucky | 250,000 | 300,000 | 33,460 |
 | New York | 170,000 | 170,000 | |
 | Virginia | 170,000 | 190,000 | 21,988 |
 | Iowa | 150,000 | 160,000 | 16,088 |
 | Montana | 120,000 | 120,000 | 5,635 |
 | West Virginia | 116,500 | 116,500 | 12,811 |
 | South Carolina | 95,000 | 95,000 | 12,428 |
 | Oklahoma | 94,000 | 94,000 | 6,309 |
 | Arkansas | 91,910 | 100,000 | |
 | Maine | 80,000 | 80,000 | 6,661 |
 | Idaho | 53,000 | 53,000 | 7,000 |
 | Maryland | 45,000 | 45,000 | 4,959 |
 | New Hampshire | 45,000 | 45,000 | 4,563 |
 | Oregon | 45,000 | 45,000 | 5,619 |
 | Vermont | 45,000 | 45,000 | 6,516 |
 | Louisiana | 40,000 | 50,000 | |
 | Massachusetts | 35,000 | 35,000 | 2,965 |
 | Colorado | 30,000 | 35,000 | |
 | Arizona | 28,100 | 28,100 | 1,178 |
 | Utah | 25,000 | 30,000 | |
 | New Mexico | 21,000 | 21,000 | |
 | New Jersey | 20,000 | 20,000 | 4,563 |
 | Delaware | 6,000 | 6,000 | 723 |
 | Nevada | 1,600 | 2,400 | 65 |
 | Alabama | 35,906 | ||
 | Connecticut | 1,219 | ||
 | Georgia | 11,924 | ||
 | Hawaii | 43 | ||
 | Illinois | 17,208 | ||
 | Indiana | 15,548 | ||
 | Kansas | 11,134 | ||
 | Minnesota | 16,714 | ||
 | Missouri | 47,119 | ||
 | Nebraska | 20,000 | ||
 | North Dakota | 3,336 | ||
 | Ohio | 15,535 | ||
 | Pennsylvania | 39,300 | ||
 | Rhode Island | 331 | ||
 | South Dakota | 6,180 | ||
 | Tennessee | 63,856 | ||
 | Wisconsin | 50,435 | ||
 | United States | 2,577,110 | 2,436,000 | 569,730 |
- States which decline to report wild turkey population data have been left blank.
The wild turkey, an iconic symbol of American wildlife, roams across various states, each with its own unique population dynamics. According to the 2023 Spring Hunt Guide by the National Wild Turkey Federation, which serves as a comprehensive resource for enthusiasts and conservationists alike, the population of wild turkeys varies significantly from state to state.
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Texas: Leading the pack with an impressive population of 510,500 wild turkeys, Texas reflects a significant increase in numbers, showcasing the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
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California: Boasting a substantial population ranging between 300,000 to 400,000 turkeys, California’s diverse habitats provide ample opportunities for these birds to thrive despite various environmental challenges.
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Kentucky: With a wild turkey population also ranging between 250,000 to 400,000, Kentucky’s rich natural landscapes and conservation efforts contribute to the stability of its turkey population.
These figures provide insight into the dynamic nature of wild turkey populations across different states and underscore the importance of conservation efforts and wildlife management strategies. Historical data reveals fluctuations in populations influenced by factors such as habitat loss, hunting regulations, and environmental changes. Understanding these trends is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of wild turkey populations nationwide.
