South-central Idaho turkeys trapped, moved

The National Wild Turkey Federation South Hills Strutters Chapter and NWTF Idaho State Chapter recently partnered with Idaho Fish and Game to successfully trap and transport wild turkeys in south-central Idaho, ensuring the birds' long-term health and sustainability in the region.

Wild turkeys were first introduced into south-central Idaho in the late 1980s; however, this population has faced challenges in recent years, with habitat loss caused by multiple wildfires, genetic isolation and other environmental pressures contributing to a significant decline. In 2022, Idaho Fish and Game took action to address these challenges by supplementing the population with 36 wild turkeys from southeastern Idaho, a press release said.

"This proactive effort has been a success," the release said.

Too many turkeys is becoming a concern in Coeur d'Alene.

Coeur d’Alene City Councilor Christie Wood recently said it’s time for the city to consider transporting turkeys elsewhere.

From her home near Coeur d’Alene Public Golf Course, Wood said “big, fat turkeys” are camping out in yards, strolling in streets and pooping on driveways. 

George Saylor, a member of the Coeur d’Alene Audubon Society, said recently to The Press that people tend to have a love/hate relationship with gobblers.

“Some like them, some would like to see them gone. I don't care for them in my yard," said Saylor, who lives in Sanders Beach, where turkeys are common. "I try to keep them out."

Wood would like the city to discuss a few options, such as a safe and humane way to trap and relocate them. The issue is expected to be on a future City Council agenda. 

Over the past two years, the wild turkey population in south-central Idaho has rebounded significantly. This increase, though, has led to winter depredation on agricultural lands near a local Wildlife Management Area. 

To mitigate these challenges and further expand wild turkey populations to suitable areas, Idaho Fish and Game partnered with the NWTF to relocate some of the birds to a site where the NWTF and partners have implemented extensive habitat restoration projects.

The relocation site, enhanced through collaborative habitat restoration efforts, provides an ideal environment for the birds. Last spring, trees were planted at the site, supported by Groasis Waterboxxes, funded through the Idaho Fish and Game Community Challenge Grant and the NWTF Idaho State Super Fund, the release said.

To prevent further depredation and support a sustainable population, Idaho Fish and Game and the NWTF identified two trapping locations near the management area. After pre-baiting the sites, walk-in traps were set. Over the course of the effort, a total of 37 wild turkeys were safely trapped, including 17 hens, 18 jakes and two large toms.