Wild Turkey’s In Wisconsin Attacking Children and Stopping Traffic

Residents in a Janesville neighborhood are crying "fowl" as a flock of aggressive wild turkeys has effectively taken over the streets. These birds aren't just crossing the road; they are chasing mail carriers, blocking traffic, and even targeting local children.

A Neighborhood Under Siege

Lawrence Meyer, a local resident, captured footage of the birds pursuing a postal worker and shared a frightening encounter involving his 8-year-old son.

"As he was approaching, crossing the street, the turkeys started chasing after him," Meyer said. "It’s scary. Like these are big birds. They’re as tall as my son. When they fluff their feathers, they’re scary. They’re huge to an 8-year-old."

While wildlife is usually a welcome sight, Meyer says these birds have overstayed their welcome. "I love wildlife. At first, the turkeys were cool. They brought life to the neighborhood," he noted. "As it’s developed, they’ve become a nuisance. They block traffic, they’ve caused accidents, they went after my mailman."

Why the Bad "Bird-titude"?

Jason Cotter, a DNR wildlife biologist, admits this behavior is a bit "plucked" up. "It’s more of a rarity than it is common," Cotter said. "We have heard of flocks in urban areas... but these particular birds in Janesville have been seemingly causing a stir."

How to Wing It

If you encounter these feathered bullies, experts suggest you don't "chicken" out. Cotter recommends making yourself look larger. "Making yourself look bigger, either using your coat, having an umbrella on hand, a plastic black garbage bag that, you know, you can look like you’re a giant turkey," he advised.

Meyer has started a petition to relocate the birds, stating, "I just want to see them thrive in their natural habitat, and I want to see these children be able to thrive in their habitat... without fear of being chased by turkeys."