The Past 72 Hours

It’s been an interesting winter, and an even more interesting spring thus far. The birds have really come alive the last three days with all of the melting that’s gone on south of the twin cities.

Up until now, I don’t think folks have been giving as much credit as they should to the effect of old man winter on our birds. I personally witnessed some birds in tough conditions, roosted quite late into the morning, and rather unwilling to fly from the trees even when you approached. In our neck of the woods, birds that migrated to live near corn stubble or rough-picked fields, had a tough time after the freezing rains of January, and the snow of March.

As these areas are being unlocked, I’ve seen birds really focus on the food for as much of the day as they can. I’ve seen 100 birds or so near some grain-bins that must have spilled-corn or other food that’s coming out from under the snow. I’ve also seen big flocks and solitary gobbler groups huddle around the base of oak trees as ground-bound acorns are popping through the snow.

I’m also hearing some gobbling in traditional roost locations, which is always a good sign that spring is underway. Not the boisterous gobbling we’ll see in the coming weeks, but toms are on the limb sounding off to crow and owl calls.

All in all, the turkey woods is coming alive, and I don’t think that ice/snow can peel back fast enough. I’m looking forward to getting the mud/muck/freeze cycle over with, and some solid drier ground underfoot for the first few seasons!

What’s everyone else seeing out there? How did your birds fare the winter?

Joel

I have been feeding them since January and I get three different groups that each come in 2-3 times a day. At first they were hesitant to come in and stay for more than a few minutes. Now they run in and spend 20-30 minutes eating. The birds that I am feeding look very healthy. Birds that I see along side the road in my travels look awfully skinny and lethargic. I expect we will have some reports of die offs from starvation if this white stuff doesn’t melt quickly.

Way to many Birds in my “Deer” Plots hope it warms up soon so they head back to their summer range

finally went on first scouting mission yesterday and the toms were sounding off like crazy on the roost. a lot of birds on my favorite ridge.

heard some singles on the neighboring properties so maybe the flocks are starting to break up a little.

only a couple gobbles once they hit the ground but i made a few calls and got some to answer. saw two strutters along the edge of a field.

the woods are still wide open, nothing greening up at all yet, so i didnt do much walking around.

think i know where i will be set up opening morning.