Turkeys are extremely adaptable and utilize wetlands in several ways. While turkeys use wetlands differently depending on the region and time of year, Mark Hatfield, NWTF director of conservation planning, explains that turkey hunters in some areas should focus on wetlands.
"Turkeys need trees; there's no doubt about that," Hatfield says. "This makes bottomland hardwoods in riparian habitats extremely important. Turkeys have excellent vision during the day, but at night they are vulnerable to a number of predators. Many times turkeys will roost in wetlands, sloughs or green-tree reservoirs above water because this adds a layer of security."