Despite predictions that this year’s spring turkey harvest might decline, first-week figures show an increase in Texas County from last year’s season.
The count was 445, which is up 34 from the same period a year ago. The breakdown, according to Jeff Crites, conservation agent, was adult birds, 369; bearded hens, three; and juvenile gobblers, 73.
Texas County’s total was good enough for a second place in the state. Tops in the state was Franklin County, 462. Callaway County was third with 362.
The count has dwindled over the years in the county. A check of www.houstonherald.com archives shows the kill during the first week 15 years ago was 757.