Wild Turkey: Horny Birds Descend Upon Brookline

The wild turkeys are back in Brookline! Funny, it seems that they never went away. However, this time, it's for real because it's mating season, and turkeys don't like coitus interruptus. Wicked Local Brookline notes that an animal control officer sustained a leg injury thanks to an upset turkey.

But the Brookline Police Department offers a few tips on turkey-fighting, most of which amounts to common sense (spotted via Metaboston):

Don’t feed turkeys — Keep wild things wild! Feeding, whether direct or indirect, can cause turkeys to appear tame. However, they are capable of bold aggressive behavior, especially in 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 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 spraying water from a hose.

Cover windows or other reflective objects — If a turkey is pecking at a shiny object, such as a window or car, cover it or disguise it.

Protect your gardens or crops — You can harass turkeys searching for food in your gardens. Dogs are effective in scaring turkeys away. Netting is another option.

Educate your neighbors — Pass this information along; your efforts will be futile if neighbors are providing food for turkeys or neglecting to act bold towards the birds. It requires the efforts of many to help keep the wild turkeys wild.

We'd also like to add--if you bust two turkeys making love, walk away and give them your privacy.

We love the tip "Don't let turkeys intimidate you." If a turkey intimidates you, you should attend assertiveness training. And, for that matter, what are you doing in Boston?

Image of turkeys invading Brookline from BradSearles from photos tagged "Bostonist" on Flickr.