By Susan R. Wenner
Herald Publisher/ Editor
Jim Turlington, an artist, photographer and avid hunter, who lives in Volusia County just south of Deltona, was recently honored with his art becoming a conservation stamp.
According to Turlington, Back in March of 2025 a wild turkey that he created in watercolors back in 2015 was selected to be featured on the Mossy Oak 2025 wild turkey conservation stamp.
Mossyoak.com added that, “‘Off the Roost”’is the result of months of observation and field sketches for his watercolors. The scene captures a classic flydown that would get any turkey hunter's heart pumping, and we're honored to use this painting for our 2025 Wild Turkey Conservation Stamp and Wright Series.”
Turlington shared that the original painting resides in a private collection in Pennsylvania; "Off the Roost" was also featured in a collaboration with Wild Turkey Bourbon in 2016.
He painted the wild turkey after sketching, photographing and intently watching the bird fly Turlington completed the painting after he observed the subject of the piece fly down. He then created his watercolor painting.
The National Wild Turkey Federation’s (NWTF) main offices also host Turlington's work on their walls. In addition his work has served as a fundraiser for wild turkey, grouse, pheasants, bobwhite quail, fresh and saltwater fish species, waterfowl and grouse.
In 2019, he was recognized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for his work in promoting Florida's wildlife and habitat management. Turlington continues to raise awareness for Florida wildlife through his art today.
“Also recently the National Wild Turkey Federation wrote a piece about my long involvement with wild turkeys titled, ‘A Love Letter to Wild Turkeys,’ which you can read about at nwtf.org in the search window type in my name and you should see the article,” said Turlington.
Signed and numbered prints are available for purchase through his social medias or email [email protected]
