Is this a Rio or Merriam?

[mblaser]

Hi all,

I just joined the ranks last month when I killed my first turkey. Wow, what an experience! I think I'm hooked for life. Anyway, I wanted to introduce myself and ask a few newbie question from all you sage hunters out there.

Utah did a late general hunt this year and I was fortunate to take this big old gobbler. I know that has mostly Merriam's, but I hear they also have Rios in the river bottom areas. I got this turkey near the Provo River drainage if anybody might know where it is and I can't tell if it's a Rio or a Merriams.

The beard was 10.75, spurs 1.25 and weighed 18lb.

I also did the taxidermy myself. It's the first turkey I've ever done, but I think it turned out pretty nice.

I'll definitely be hanging around from here on out and trying to learn from you all.

[cut_un]

Welcome from Va. brother, glad you jumped in! Yes, turkey hunting,spring or fall is a great sport! And as you see it changes your life forever! I've been hunting them critters for over 40 years! Still "got it bas too" Hope to of these world travels jump in but I'm thinking it's a Rio! Nice bird too!