Thanks to restoration and stocking efforts, the wild turkey population is now 4.5 million nationwide. Veterinarian John Mettler, Jr. provides the growing number of wild turkey hunters with a complete guide to understanding, hunting, dressing, and cooking this noble bird.
"Wild Turkey Hunting" examines the habits of the wild turkey and reveals how understanding the bird's distribution, feeding patterns, and mating rituals is key to a successful hunt. Mettler teaches readers how to choose appropriate clothing, weapons, and equipment, and outlines important safety considerations. Graced with anecdotes of his own hunting experience, Mettler's descriptions of the traditional spring and fall hunts are thorough and captivating.
Using clear, concise instructions and illustrations, Mettler takes the reader through the field dressing process, stressing the importance of proper handling to ensure the safest and most efficient use of a turkey carcass. He even provides step-by-step instructions for mounting a prize bird. And for the person who prefers to preserve the wild turkey on film, Mettler dedicates an entire chapter to photographing turkeys in their natural habitat.
"Wild Turkey Hunting" also contains more than thirty recipes for enjoying this rare delicacy. Appendices list state and provincial game commissions, hunting seasons, and sources for wild turkey hunting information and supplies.