Lifelike representations of wild turkeys, sculpted and painted to resemble the actual animal, serve as practice aids for bowhunters. These three-dimensional figures, often made from durable foam or self-healing materials, vary in size and posture to simulate different hunting scenarios. Some models feature replaceable vital areas to extend the target’s lifespan.
Practicing with these realistic avian decoys offers archers several advantages. It allows hunters to refine aiming skills, judge distances accurately, and select appropriate shot placement for a clean, ethical harvest. This type of practice also builds familiarity with the turkey’s anatomy and helps archers understand how arrow penetration and trajectory are affected by shot angle and distance. Historically, archers honed their skills on less sophisticated targets. The development of these highly detailed and durable models represents a significant advancement in archery practice technology, contributing to both hunter proficiency and wildlife conservation efforts.