The Magnificent Wild Turkeys: Encounters and Insights

When we think of turkeys, we normally think of Thanksgiving, but let's dive into the world of wild turkeys before they end up on your plate. I love seeing wild turkeys because they are one of the biggest birds in the Pearson Arastradero Preserve, and the males are very impressive

when they show their feathers. I see turkeys quite often, around 70-80% of the time I go hiking. For a small time period, I used to encounter them 100% of the time because I discovered where they nested at night. Unfortunately, they moved their nests. They nest in trees to avoid ground predators. The female turkeys travel in groups so that predators can't pick a specific one to kill. I once saw a wild coyote circling a group of turkeys, but he could not choose a target, so he eventually surrendered and found another meal. I am most impressed with the turkeys when the males unruffle their feathers and do a dance. I have witnessed two turkeys mating only once. I encounter wild male turkeys 20% of the time I go hiking. I hope I have educated you on the lives of turkeys, and that you will appreciate their magnificence as much as I do.