Forest wildlife program manager Paul Shelton sent this:

Illinois turkey hunters harvested a preliminary total of 1637 birds during the first season in the south zone (April 5-9), the highest 1st season harvest in that zone since 2004, when 1721 birds were taken. For comparison, last year's first season produced 1477 birds. Opening day this year was particularly strong, with 497 birds taken (compared to 314 last year). Top 5 counties were Union (100), Pope (96), Jefferson (91), Jackson (87), and Randolph (80). Results by county are included in the attached table.

The first north season opened today.