Wild turkeys represent one of America’s greatest wildlife conservation success stories. These impressive birds have made a remarkable comeback from near extinction in the early 1900s to thriving populations across most of the United States today. Understanding where these majestic creatures flourish most can help hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservationists appreciate the incredible diversity and abundance of wild turkey populations.
You’ll be amazed to discover that some states harbor turkey populations that number in the hundreds of thousands, while others maintain smaller but equally important flocks. From the vast ranches of Texas to the dense forests of the Southeast, wild turkeys have adapted to diverse habitats and climates. Let’s explore which states lead the nation in wild turkey populations.
Texas: The Undisputed Leader
Texas dominates the wild turkey landscape with an impressive population of 510,500 to 600,000 wild turkeys. The Lone Star State’s massive size and diverse habitats create ideal conditions for these birds to flourish. Approximately 500,000 turkeys reside here in Texas, and the turkey hunting culture is strong.
As for total turkey numbers, the Kansas flock is about 325,000 strong, with about half of those being Rios in the western half of the state. However, Texas significantly outpaces even this substantial population. The state’s combination of open woodlands, agricultural areas, and native grasslands provides the perfect habitat mix that wild turkeys need to thrive throughout their annual lifecycle.
California: A Surprising Powerhouse
California boasts a substantial population of approximately 240,000 to 250,000 turkeys. Despite environmental challenges and urban development pressures, the Golden State maintains one of the nation’s largest turkey populations. It has about 240,000 to 250,000 turkeys, with Eastern, Merriam’s, and Rio Grande subspecies.
The state’s diverse terrain, from coastal hills to mountain forests and agricultural valleys, supports different subspecies of wild turkeys. This diversity allows for robust populations that can adapt to various environmental conditions and habitat types throughout California’s vast landscape.
Missouri: The Show Me State Shows Results
The Show Me State has long touted a great turkey population. Missouri’s turkey population is currently estimated at 200,000 to 250,000 birds, down from historical peaks but still substantial. The state really stands out for its turkey hunting, making it a prime destination for hunters.
Missouri’s success stems from its incredibly diverse habitat mix featuring hardwood forests, native prairie, and agricultural lands. In 2024, 42,180 turkeys were harvested during the spring season, which was the third year in a row of increasing numbers. The top harvest counties were Franklin, Callaway, and Texas. This harvest success indicates a healthy, sustainable population.
Kentucky: The Bluegrass Turkey Haven
Kentucky has a wild turkey population also ranging between 250,000 to 400,000. The Commonwealth’s rich natural landscapes and dedicated conservation efforts have created ideal conditions for wild turkey populations to flourish. The population is stable, and 2024 spring turkey harvests numbered 33,460 birds, the third-highest in the state’s history. This was also 9% higher than the state’s five-year average.
Kentucky’s terrain diversity, from the Cumberland Mountains to agricultural bottomlands, provides the varied habitat that supports large turkey populations. The state’s commitment to habitat management and reasonable hunting regulations has helped maintain these impressive numbers over time.
North Carolina: The Tar Heel Success Story
North Carolina’s wild turkey population has increased from an estimated 2,000 birds in 1970 to an estimated 265,000 to 270,000 birds. This remarkable recovery represents one of the most dramatic conservation success stories in the nation. According to the NCWRC 24,089 turkeys were harvested in 2023, setting a new turkey harvest record for the state.
The state’s extensive restoration program involved relocating more than 6,000 wild turkeys to 358 restoration sites across North Carolina. Wild turkeys now exist in all 100 counties in the state and all 100 counties now have a spring gobbler season. This comprehensive recovery demonstrates the power of dedicated wildlife management.
Mississippi: The Magnolia State’s Quarter Million
Over the last three decades, the state has consistently boasted one of the largest turkey populations in the country. With a quarter of a million birds from the Delta to the Gulf, hunters should have no problem finding a gobbler in the Magnolia State. Mississippi’s diverse habitats, from river bottoms to pine forests, support this substantial population.
Mississippi also saw a 30-40% increase in young male turkeys, called jakes, after a strong hatch in 2022. This positive recruitment indicates a healthy, growing population that bodes well for the state’s future turkey numbers. The combination of suitable habitat and effective wildlife management continues to support Mississippi’s impressive turkey population.
Wisconsin: The Badger State’s Bounty
Most years, Wisconsin has about 220,000 turkeys, about as many hunters, and approximately 35,000 to 45,000 turkeys are harvested here. Currently, approximately 200,000 to 250,000 turkeys roam the land. 50,435 turkeys were registered in 2024, the fourth-highest spring harvest in state history.
Wisconsin’s success stems from its abundant public lands, favorable hunting regulations, and diverse habitat. The past few years, we’ve seen stable turkey populations, and a positive relationship with our turkey production. Additionally, turkeys have enjoyed several mild winters. The state’s commitment to wildlife management and hunter access has created an ideal environment for both turkeys and those who pursue them.
Pennsylvania: The Keystone Conservation Achievement
Penn has 350,000 birds now which brings them up to 7.59 birds per square mile. There are about 160,000 hunters here, and they bag about 35,000 birds each year. Pennsylvania’s turkey hunting heritage runs deep, with perhaps one of the most devoted groups of turkey hunters in the nation.
The state’s mountainous terrain and extensive forests provide excellent wild turkey habitat. Pennsylvania’s wildlife management efforts have successfully maintained substantial turkey populations despite heavy hunting pressure and habitat challenges. The state continues to support research and habitat improvement projects to ensure long-term population sustainability.
Looking Forward: Conservation and Population Trends
The wild turkey population in the US stands at approximately 6.5 million for 2025. While many states maintain healthy populations, challenges remain. Missouri’s wild turkey population dropped by over one-third in less than 20 years, with nearly a 50% decline in northern Missouri since 2004. Some states face ongoing population pressures from habitat loss, climate change, and other environmental factors.
However, success stories continue to emerge. Between 2014 and 2019, spring harvests rose in 24 states, showing that local populations can rebound with good habitat and management. For example, Ohio and Illinois reported record or near-record wild turkey harvests in 2023 and 2024. These examples demonstrate that with proper management and conservation efforts, wild turkey populations can continue to thrive across America.
Wild turkeys have proven their resilience and adaptability across diverse American landscapes. From Texas’s vast rangelands to North Carolina’s restored forests, these remarkable birds continue to flourish in states committed to wildlife conservation. The states with the highest populations showcase what’s possible when conservation efforts, habitat management, and sustainable hunting practices work together. What do you think makes the difference in maintaining healthy wild turkey populations? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Jan loves Wildlife and Animals and is one of the founders of Animals Around The Globe. He holds an MSc in Finance & Economics and is a passionate PADI Open Water Diver. His favorite animals are Mountain Gorillas, Tigers, and Great White Sharks. He lived in South Africa, Germany, the USA, Ireland, Italy, China, and Australia. Before AATG, Jan worked for Google, Axel Springer, BMW and others.
