The other day, I saw a large band of Wild Turkeys, two dozen or more, cross the road up from my house. Perhaps these were the same turkeys I watched throughout the spring and summer. Then there were two or three hens with their broods of chicks trailing after. Periodically, while driving, I’d intersect these turkeys crossing the same stretch of road that cuts through the woodland adjacent to my property. As the months passed I watched these chicks get bigger and bigger. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.)
I’m lucky to live on the edge of expansive woodland. I regularly take walks with my three dogs through these woods and often find telltale signs of turkeys, their “scratchings” in the leaf litter for insects and berries. And more than once, I’ve stumbled into a band, especially, when the dogs are off scouting elsewhere. On one such occasion, I startled a large flock rummaging on a wooded hillside. Their alarm calls filled the air—put-put-put—and everywhere turkeys crashed through the underbrush and up into the trees. Some glided above the tree line. It was quite exhilarating.
Whenever I’m out with the dogs, I always keep eyes and ears open for whatever birds may cross my path. And they always do!
Till next time . . . happy birding!
Georgia Anne
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