The California Fish and Wildlife Plan of the Department of Fish and Game embodies a three phase program; namely, expansion of the range, preservation of the habitat, and management of the species on a sustained yield basis. Only one phase, the expansion of the range, has been initiated. During the last four years 253 wild turkeys have been trapped in California, from previously established populations and transplanted to seven suitable areas. Also, 63 wild trapped Merriam?s turkeys and 25 wild trapped Rio Grande turkeys were received from other states and released in California. Hunting was recommended as a management tool. Examples were given of huntable turkey populations established outside the historical range of the wild turkey.
|
