Virginia’s Turkey Harvest Sees Statewide Decline, but Increases in Accomack and Northampton Counties

The Virginia DWR reported a spring turkey harvest of 20,565 for 2025, showing a 6% drop from 2024, yet Accomack and Northampton Counties noted increases. DWR attributes the statewide decline to low juvenile turkey numbers the past two years. Habitat improvements are needed to boost turkey populations long-term, despite some regions showing healthy numbers.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) recently reported a spring turkey harvest of 20,565 wild turkeys for the year 2025, placing this number as the fourth highest in the state’s history. However, compared to last year, there was a 6% overall decline in the harvest. Interestingly, both Accomack and Northampton Counties experienced increases amid this downward trend.

Specifically, Accomack County saw a harvest of 318 turkeys, which marks a 12% rise from the previous year and is 10% higher than the county’s three-year average. Likewise, Northampton County reported 86 turkeys harvested; this is a significant 16% increase compared to 2024 and also 12% above its three-year average.

Even with the overall statewide decline, the total harvest is still considered the third-largest ever recorded. DWR officials attribute the downturn to a decline in turkey brood recruitment over the past two years, as revealed by annual brood surveys conducted in 2022 and 2023. These surveys indicated below-average numbers of juvenile turkeys, or poults, which are essential for sustaining adult turkey populations in subsequent seasons. This reduction in recruitment likely led to fewer mature turkeys available for hunters this year.

Interestingly, the proportion of juvenile gobblers, often referred to as “jakes,” harvested has risen from 7% last season to 11% this year, indicating an increase in the harvest of younger birds due to a diminished adult population. Ryan Brown, Executive Director of DWR, asserted that despite annual fluctuations, Virginia’s turkey populations continue to offer ample recreational opportunities.

Brown stated, “Even with annual fluctuations based on the hatch, weather, and food conditions, turkey populations continue to provide great recreational opportunities across the Commonwealth.” However, he also cautioned that not all areas are meeting the population goals as outlined in Virginia’s Wild Turkey Management Plan.

DWR has pointed out that future habitat improvements will be vital to increasing nesting success and brood development, which are crucial for ensuring the long-term health and growth of turkey populations throughout the state.

In summary, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has reported a mixed bag for the 2025 spring turkey season. While statewide numbers saw a decline, some areas like Accomack and Northampton Counties actually improved their harvest figures. The DWR emphasizes the importance of brood recruitment and habitat improvements to maintain turkey populations for future hunting seasons. The outlook, while cautious, remains optimistic for recreational turkey hunting in Virginia.

Original Source: shoredailynews.com