The regular turkey hunting season opened on May 1 in New York. The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation has given some safety tips for hunters and non-hunters sharing the woods during the month of May.
– hunters and non-hunters should not wear red, white, or blue clothing, hats, or packs to avoid being mistaken for a turkey.- hikers, bird watchers and other non-hunters should wear fluorescent orange.- hunters should wear fluorescent orange while moving to and from their hunting area and should put fluorescent orange on a nearby tree when sitting still waiting for a turkey.- never stalk turkey sounds. It could be another hunter.- be sure of your target, what is in front of it and what is beyond it.- do not shoot at movement or sound. If you see another vehicle or suspect another hunter is working the area, move to another area to avoid interaction with other hunters.- always assume any call or sounds you hear are from another hunter. Don’t shoot until you clearly see the whole turkey and can identify the sex of the bird.- if you see another hunter, remain still and speak up clearly. Never wave or use a turkey call to alert another hunter.- when calling, sit still with your back against a big tree or rock, to hide you from turkeys and other hunters.- if you take a turkey or carry a decoy, wrap it in fluorescent orange or put in in an orange bag.Be safe, be seen!
A look at a turkey. (Photo provided)