HYRUM – As Thanksgiving approaches, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is preparing the Hardware Wildlife Education Center for its annual Turkey Tales exhibit, where visitors can learn about wild turkeys found in Cache Valley and throughout Utah.
Hardware Wildlife Education Center Director Marni Lee and her staff spend hours preparing displays and activities to help visitors learn about the birds and their habits.
In Cache County wild tukeys are abundant along the treelines in the valley.
The free exhibit will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on three weekends in November: Nov. 6-8, Nov. 13-15 and Nov. 20-22.
Located within the Hardware Wildlife Management Area in Blacksmith Fork Canyon, the education center offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Utah’s wildlife through seasonal exhibits and family-friendly activities.
Visitors may even spot wild turkeys on their way to the center or while exploring the wildlife management area.
“We can’t guarantee you’ll see wild turkeys during your visit, but there’s a decent chance you will,” Lee said. “Dozens of wild turkeys live in the wildlife management area and fall and winter are some of the best times to see them.”
In addition to the exhibit, families can participate in hands-on activities, complete a free craft project and attend hourly story times. A nearby walking path will feature enlarged book pages with educational activities about animals.
“Many Utahns aren’t aware that wild turkeys live in Utah,” Lee said. “The exhibit provides fun facts about the birds and lots of information about wild turkey biology.”
The education center is open seasonally for fall and winter activities. During the winter months, visitors can also enjoy wagon rides and elk viewing.
To reach the Hardware Wildlife Education Center, travel about 15 miles from Hyrum on state Route 101 through Blacksmith Fork Canyon. Visitors are encouraged to watch for wild turkeys along the way.
For more information about the Turkey Tales exhibit or other November activities, call the center at 435-753-6206.