Wild turkeys seek elevated perches for rest and protection as daylight fades. This behavior, known as roosting, is a fundamental survival strategy.
The Regularity of Turkey Roosts
Wild turkeys often return to the same general roosting areas, or even the same trees, if undisturbed. This predictable behavior is particularly noticeable where suitable roosting trees are limited, such as open prairies. Establishing a routine reduces exposure to ground predators, as turkeys have poor night vision and are vulnerable on the ground. Evidence of consistent roost use includes accumulated droppings and feathers beneath preferred trees. While some turkey subspecies, like Rio Grande and Merriam’s, show stronger loyalty to specific sites, Eastern turkeys may exhibit more varied roosting patterns across their home ranges.
Choosing a Safe Perch
Wild turkeys prioritize safety from predators when selecting a roosting site. They choose tall trees (40-50 feet) with large diameters and wide, open crowns, providing ample horizontal limbs for perching. Common tree species used for roosting include oaks, pines, sycamores, cottonwoods, pecans, and maples. An open understory beneath the canopy is also important, allowing clear flight paths for ascent and descent, and enabling them to survey surroundings for potential threats before flying down.
Turkeys also consider proximity to essential resources. They often select trees near water sources (within 200-300 yards) and feeding areas (within 100 yards). Elevated terrain like ridges or hills provides an advantage, allowing them to survey wider areas. While warmth is a factor, predator avoidance primarily influences roost selection; communal roosting offers additional safety in numbers.
Why a Roosting Spot Might Change
Despite their preference for consistency, wild turkeys abandon regular roosting spots under certain circumstances. Significant disturbance, such as repeated pressure from predators (e.g., owls, bobcats, coyotes), can force birds to seek new overnight locations. Human activities, including hunting pressure or encroachment from development and ranching, also compel turkeys to relocate their roosts.
Habitat changes, such as logging or urban sprawl, can eliminate suitable roosting sites, necessitating a move. Severe weather, including high winds, heavy rain, or storms, may also cause turkeys to seek more sheltered trees or shift to lower, more protected areas. Additionally, seasonal changes, particularly during breeding season when toms disperse for hens, or shifts in food and water availability, can lead to turkeys altering nightly roosting locations.