N.M. Game & Fish official offers tips on safe hunting

By Mike Marino
Cibola County Bureau

GRANTS — The spring turkey hunting season is ready to start in a few weeks, and in addition to the anticipation of a successful hunt, there should also be concerns regarding other preparations for the hunt including hunter safety.

A number of states require hunters in the field to wear bright orange as a deterrent to being mistakenly shot. Although that is not a requirement in New Mexico, according to Ross Morgan, Public Information Officer for the Northwestern District of the New Mexico Game and Fish Department, "We would hope that the hunters in the field take some measure of precaution to help prevent an accidental shooting."

Adults aren't the only ones who take to the hunt each year. Every year there is an increased number of young people who also join the adults in search of big and small game. Morgan said, "If a youngster wants to hunt with a firearm they do have to complete a hunters education course which the Fish and Game Department provides for a $5 donation. The class usually runs for a two day period, generally on a Saturday and Sunday, with each segment eight hours in length. We also offer some evening classes throughout the year."

There is no age limit or classes required for youth who decide to hunt with bow and arrow. Morgan says there are not that many who opt for that type of hunting.

Morgan also said, "Preparing your weapon for the hunting season is very important. You want to do some target shooting before the season starts so you can gauge the shot pattern of your firearm. That will determine how far away you can be to successfully bring down a turkey. Remember, you want to aim for the head, as the breast is thick and the shot will not penetrate in most cases."

A point of interest to consider before going afield in New Mexico is that only shotguns are allowed for turkey hunting.

The rules governing this year's hunt are pretty similar to last year's so hunters should also make sure they are familiar with the regulations in addition to practicing safety in the field. The spring hunt limit is one bearded turkey.

Three species of turkeys live in New Mexico and only two are huntable, the Rio Grande turkey and the Merriman turkey. The state is also home to the Gould's turkey which is considered endangered and cannot be hunted.

Contact the Game and Fish Department at (505) 222-4731 for more information on hunter safety courses.