How to Attract Game Birds

Create an appropriate habitat for the game bird you wish to attract. To attract pheasants, plant tall grass and forbs that remain undisturbed during their nesting season (April 15 to July 15). Quail need a different habitat without tall grass. Quail prefer thick shrubs or even woodpiles to protect them while nesting. To attract wild turkeys, provide an environment that contains either large trees such as oak or wide grass fields, as turkeys nest in diverse environments.

Provide the proper food for the game birds you wish to attract. For quail, plant a variety of fruit-bearing trees, grasses, and other plants with cover nearby for protection. Quail are flexible eaters and can survive on different food sources. Plant a food plot with corn and grain to adequately feed them. For wild turkeys, make available fruit and nut bearing trees as well as greens. Ten percent of their diet comes from insects that can be found on plants.

Protect the game birds from prey. Create an environment with the fewest possible disturbances to the birds. Do not mow the field or disturb their habitat during their nesting season. Ensure that their nesting habitats are protected from harsh environmental conditions such as snow.

Secure or create a water source within their habitat. Game birds will not be attracted to your land without an adequate water source such as a creek, lake or pond, as they drink water daily. Ensure the water source is within a quarter mile of a nesting spot for wild turkeys.