Minnetonka's Wild Turkey Problem?

It’s not an uncommon occurance to spot— or hear— a wild turkey in Minnetonka. Because of new hatchings, predators and the migration of the birds, the number of wild turkeys in the city rises and falls throughout the year. And in recent weeks, more locals have noticed more of these feathered Minnetonka residents. 

According to DeeAnn Bloom, Minnetonka Police Department community service officer, wild turkeys are very difficult to get rid of once they have visited your property. She said that once they settle in, they are messy and territorial.

Trapping and relocating these “nuisance” turkeys is not an option. That’s because the methods used to trap turkeys in remote areas are often impractical, unsafe or ineffective in urban or suburban areas. Also, released turkeys may continue their inappropriate actions where they are released or may move substantial distances to other suburban sites.

The city of Minnetonka has put together a few tips to help residents deal with wild turkeys.

• Don’t feed them. 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. If you are using bird feeders, follow the tips above for smart feeding.
• 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. String foil reflective tape at about knee level to keep turkeys out of certain areas of your property.
• Do not allow turkeys to be comfortable in the presence of people. Don't let turkeys intimidate you. Scare or threaten a bold, aggressive turkey with loud noises, swatting with a broom or water sprayed from a hose. Another method is to open and close an umbrella (preferably black) in the direction of the turkeys. This imitates a male turkey defending its territory and may scare off the turkeys.
• Educate your neighbors by passing 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. Turkeys are important and valuable birds in Minnesota. They are classified as game birds for which regulated hunting seasons and management programs have been established.

Information taken from the Minnetonka city website, www.eminnetonka.com.  For more information about wild turkeys, visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website at www.dnr.state.mn.us and search “turkeys.”