I'll start off by saying there are some areas that turkey numbers are doing well or at least holding their own. However, many places especially in the SE are struggling. What are some of the reasons?
1. Baiting Program - Ever since the legalization of bait for deer, many hunters continue to keep the feeders full during the spring. (Corn, Scratch, Milo, Wheat, Crickets?) People who do not turkey hunt but a couple of times per season routinely kill one over a bait pile on Opening Day. Notice the same people busting one and displaying it all over Facebook on every opening weekend. After shooting into a flock over bait, those same hunters scratch the rest of the season because the odds go back into the turkey's favor.
2. I find it hard to believe a wild turkey can withstand the hunting pressure that Covid has produced. Not to mention, YouTube, Hunting Industry (They have tried to make it like deer hunting - it's not and never will be) Outdoor television Programs, etc.
3. Habitat Loss in my area due to tornado damage and timber harvests.
4. Wild Hogs/ Predators
5. Bad Hatches

What other issues are we dealing with?