Turkey Gangs Worry Foxborough Residents

FOXBOROUGH, MA — There's a new gang in town trying to claim their turf, but they're a bit smaller and substantially less human than expected.

In recent days, Foxborough has experienced a problem with aggressive wild turkeys, with many residents detailing their experience on the Foxborough Discussion group. Meg Nelson wrote on Aug. 24 that the turkeys almost attacked a jogger near her home and nearly came into her residence when she gave the jogger safe refuge.

Debra Sabourin told NECN that a group of three followed her before attacking her legs. A neighbor helped fend off the group by throwing boots.

Animal Control Officer Sue Thibedeau said she's received about three dozen calls about the birds and has a feeling that someone is feeding the animals, making them less afraid of humans.

It's illegal to transfer wildlife but if the birds become dangerous enough, the town could choose to kill the trouble-making turkeys.

Here are some tips from state wildlife officials on dealing with turkeys:

• Don’t feed turkeys—Keep wild things wild! Feeding, whether direct or indirect, can cause turkeys to act tame and may lead to bold or aggressive behavior, especially in the breeding season.
• Keep bird feeder areas clean—Use feeders designed to keep seed off the ground, as the seed attracts turkeys and other wild animals. Clean up spilled seed from other types of feeders daily. Remove feeders in the spring, as there is plenty of natural food available for all birds.
• Don’t let turkeys intimidate you—Don’t hesitate to scare or threaten a bold, aggressive turkey with loud noises, swatting with a broom or water sprayed from a hose. A dog on a leash is also an effective deterrent.
• Cover windows or other reflective objects—If a turkey is pecking at a shiny object such as a vehicle or window, cover or otherwise disguise the object. Harass the bird by chasing it, squirting with a hose or other means of aggression.
• Protect your gardens and crops—You can harass turkeys searching for food in your gardens. Dogs tethered on a run can also be effective in scaring turkeys away from gardens. Netting is another option to employ. In agricultural situations, some scare devices are effective.
• Educate your neighbors—Pass this information along: Your efforts will be futile if neighbors are providing food for turkeys or neglecting to act boldly towards the birds. It requires the efforts of the entire neighborhood to help keep wild turkeys wild.

Image Credit: Jerry Pajotte