Wild turkeys are large ground-dwelling birds native to North America. They are the heaviest members of the Galliformes order, which includes chickens and pheasants. Adult males typically weigh between 11 to 24 pounds and measure 39 to 49 inches long, while females are significantly smaller. Wild turkeys inhabit hardwood and mixed conifer-hardwood forests, often with scattered clearings like pastures or fields.
Natural Predators of Adult Turkeys
Coyotes are known to ambush turkeys, often using their keen sense of smell. Research suggests wild turkeys may feature more prominently in coyote diets than previously believed.
Bobcats are opportunistic hunters, frequently employing a sit-and-pounce strategy from ground or elevated positions. They can also climb trees, posing a threat even to poults roosting at night.
Cougars, also known as mountain lions, are predators of adult turkeys. American black bears may also consume adult turkeys and eggs. Golden eagles strike birds from high above at speeds up to 200 mph. Larger hawks, such as red-tailed hawks, can also attack turkeys.
Great horned owls often attack turkeys at their roost sites, gaining a distinct advantage due to the turkey’s poor night vision. Foxes, including red and gray foxes, also prey on adult turkeys. Gray foxes possess climbing abilities, extending their hunting range.
Vulnerabilities of Young Turkeys and Eggs
Wild turkey eggs and young poults are highly susceptible to a wide range of predators. Raccoons are considered a primary predator of turkey eggs, often learning to locate nests by scent along habitat edges.
They are aggressive and can dislodge a hen from her nest. Opossums and skunks are also successful at finding and consuming turkey eggs. They are drawn to nests and can impact turkey populations.
Snakes, including black and rat snakes, destroy nests, consuming eggs and newly hatched poults. Rodents can also prey on nests. Crows swoop down to break and eat exposed eggs. Ravens also engage in similar behavior.
Young poults, particularly during their first 14 days of life, are vulnerable as they cannot fly for about ten days after hatching, making them easy ground targets. Hawks and owls also contribute to poult loss. Feral dogs and cats can also prey on eggs and young turkeys.
Wild Turkey Survival Strategies
Wild turkeys possess highly developed senses that aid in predator detection and avoidance. Their eyesight is keen, allowing them to detect movement and process visual details quickly. Their eyes are positioned on the sides of their head, providing a wide field of view, up to 360 degrees with slight head movements.
Their hearing is also remarkable; turkeys can pinpoint the exact location of sounds from great distances. This acute hearing supplements their vision, detecting threats even when their eyes are focused elsewhere.
When threatened, wild turkeys can run at speeds up to 25 mph and are capable of swift, short bursts of flight, reaching up to 55 mph. This explosive flight provides a rapid escape from danger.
To avoid ground predators, wild turkeys typically roost in trees at night. They select large trees and perch as high as possible, providing safety from nocturnal hunters like coyotes and foxes. This elevated position also offers a good vantage point to spot threats.
Turkeys often engage in flocking behavior, providing safety in numbers. Larger groups mean more eyes and ears to detect predators.
Hens also protect their nests and young through concealment, choosing dense vegetation for nesting sites. If cornered, adult males may use their leg spurs and body to deter mid-sized mammals. Hens have also been observed chasing off hawks when their poults are threatened.