Exploring the curious behavior of turkeys: Why do these birds sometimes exhibit aggression towards humans?
Let’s delve into this intriguing topic together.
I once heard that turkeys can be territorial, especially during mating season or when they perceive a threat. Anyone has more info on this?
Yeah, you’re right! Turkeys often see their reflection in windows or shiny objects and think it’s another turkey, so they might attack it. It’s pretty common behavior.
Absolutely, turkeys have a strong instinct to protect their flock and territory. If they feel their space is invaded, they could get aggressive. Makes hiking a bit more exciting during certain seasons.
It’s surprising; you’d think such big birds would be less aggressive. Do urban turkeys act the same way?
Urban turkeys can be even more aggressive because they’re not as afraid of humans. They’re used to being around people and will assert their dominance if they feel challenged.
I had a turkey chase me once when I was jogging. Why do they always go for the legs?
Turkeys aim for legs because that’s what’s within their reach and they can use their strong legs and claws to defend themselves.
Their natural predators often go for their legs, so they’ve developed strong leg defenses. It’s a survival instinct to protect themselves there.
Sounds like we should all start carrying shiny objects to redirect their aggression, haha! 
Turkeys seem to have personalities… some are more aggressive, others are pretty chill. It’s interesting to observe.
True, I’ve noticed that too. Maybe it’s related to their social hierarchy? Alpha turkeys are known to be more aggressive.
I heard that too. The more dominant a turkey is, the more territorial they get. They’ll go after anything that seems threatening to their status.
Turkeys sometimes mistake human behavior for challenging behavior. They might see it as a threat or competition.
Especially during mating season. Even unintentionally getting too close to their territory can trigger them to attack.
So, the best way to avoid conflict with turkeys is to stay out of their way, especially during specific seasons. Makes perfect sense!
Turkeys often lose their fear of humans when people feed them. Once they associate us with food, they can get bold, even aggressive, especially during breeding season.
I once had a tom turkey charge my car mirror… turned out he thought his reflection was a rival. These birds can be surprisingly territorial.
@FeatheredFacts That tracks. Our neighborhood turkeys seem downright brazen now. I read that when males puff their feathers and gobble, it’s all about dominance, and people unwittingly get caught up in it.
Had a turkey chase me while I was jogging on a trail last spring. my legs must have looked like a flexing rival. Turns out that’s peak breeding-season behavior.