CASPER - The Wyoming Game and Fish Department would like to thank the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) for the generous donation of $2,000 to help purchase a live trap for wild turkeys. This donation will enhance ongoing efforts to manage and relocate wild turkeys that have ventured into urban areas of Casper and beyond, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the birds and residents.

“We are incredibly grateful to the NWTF for their support and commitment to wild turkey conservation,” said Brandon Werner. “This new live trap will play a vital role in our efforts to address the growing challenges posed by wild turkeys in Casper neighborhoods and around the state as needed. It allows us to capture and relocate these birds to more suitable habitats where they can thrive.”

The donation comes as urban encounters with wild turkeys are becoming increasingly common. In 2024, Game and Fish trapped and relocated over 140 from Casper and surrounding areas. These adaptable birds are drawn to urban areas for food and shelter, sometimes causing property damage or conflicts with residents. This wild turkey live trap provides a safe and effective solution for capturing large groups of wild turkeys in residential areas where nets can be challenging to set. It enables wildlife officials to relocate birds to reduce these conflicts.

The NWTF, a leader in conservation and the restoration of wild turkey populations, has long championed sustainable wildlife management practices. Their contribution underscores their dedication to fostering healthy ecosystems and supporting communities as they coexist with wildlife.

“Assisting the Wyoming Game and Fish with managing habituated and nuisance birds is not only important to reduce public frustration of wild turkeys, but this effort also makes sure these wildlife remain wild. It’s also an added benefit that many of these birds can be relocated from their urban setting into areas that provides public hunting opportunities,” adds David Nikonow, district biologist with NTWF for Wyoming.

Property damage has occurred to houses, vehicles and trees around Casper.  Residents around Casper are reminded to:

• Remove food sources: Do not leave birdseed, pet food, or other attractants outside. Feeding of wild turkeys is prohibited in the City of Casper.
• Avoid feeding wild turkeys: Feeding wild turkeys can lead to habituation and increase conflicts.
• Scare wild turkeys away: Use motion-activated sprinklers or other deterrents to keep wild turkeys out of yards.

Game and Fish will use the donated trap in neighborhoods where wild turkeys have been causing issues and damage. Residents are encouraged to report concerns about wild turkeys to Game and Fish at 473-3400.

For more information on the NWTF and their conservation efforts, visit nwtf.org.