Hunter Orange for Spring Turkey Hunting: Hunter Perceptions and Opinions

In 1982, the Missouri Department of Conservation surveyed 370 volunteers for their experiences, perceptions, and opinions related to use of "hunter orange" during spring hunting of eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris). Results showed that gobblers can indeed be called and taken while a hunter orange item is being displayed, but hunters were ambivalent as to the effects of the band on heightening the alertness of turkeys. Subjects generally agreed that hunter orange served to alert other hunters to their presence, but were hesitant to say they "liked" the idea of using an item of hunter orange during spring turkey season.