What type of terrain do bugling toms favor during the breeding season?

Understanding Tom Habitat Preferences

Bugling Merriam’s toms during the breeding season tend to favor terrain with a mix of open spaces and adequate cover, often at lower elevations (typically below 6,500 feet). This terrain type allows them to establish a dominance hierarchy, find potential mates, and defend their territory.

Identifying Bugling Tom Habitat in the Field

When searching for bugling toms, look for areas with a mix of open grasslands, sagebrush flats, and scattered aspen or willow stands. These terrain types provide toms with sufficient space to establish their dominance hierarchy and find potential mates. It’s essential to note that Merriam’s toms often prefer areas with more open space than other turkey subspecies.

Effective Calling Strategies for Bugling Toms

To increase your chances of calling in a bugling tom, use a combination of loud, aggressive calling tactics, such as the “cutting yelp” or “long yelp.” Start with a series of loud, high-pitched yelps, followed by a series of low, raspy cackles. Repeat this sequence to mimic the sounds of a receptive hen and encourage the tom to respond. Keep your volume consistent and loud enough to carry across the landscape, and be prepared to move to a new location if you don’t receive a response within 10-15 minutes.