Gould's Turkey

Photo http://www.coueswhitetail.com

One of two native Arizona wild turkey species, Gould's turkeys were hunted nearly to extinction before the hunting regulations of 1929.  They have made a small comeback, so that Arizona issued about 30 permits for fall Gould turkey hunt last year.  Isn't he a beauty?  Gould's is larger than the more common Merriam's turkey found throughout the West, with males weighing over 30 lbs.  To hunt a fall turkey, you must apply for a draw that takes place in June.  Whereas I would be a vegetarian before shooting one of these birds, the thought of this fellow roaming freely through the pine forests, grazing on juniper berries, grass seed and insects, gobbling to attract a harem of hens for mating, seems like a good life for this sexy beast.  Bring on the tofurkey.