How to Attract Wild Turkeys to Your Yard: A Comprehensive Guide
How to Attract Wild Turkeys to Your Yard: A Comprehensive Guide
Have you ever found yourself bewildered by the sudden influx of turkey guests in your backyard? With Internet rumors and family farm anecdotes floating around, it's clear that attracting wild turkeys to your yard isn't as mysterious as it may seem. In this article, we'll dive into the strategies and tips for successfully enticing these elusive birds to your yard.
Understanding Turkey Behavior
Wild turkeys are more than just an internet sensation; they're a fascinating wildlife species that can thrive in residential areas. The primary reason these birds flock to certain areas is the availability of food resources. Understanding their feeding behavior is key to attracting them.
Planting the Right Vegetation
One of the primary factors attracting wild turkeys to a yard is the presence of suitable vegetation. Fruit trees can be particularly appealing, providing both food and cover. If you have a mature orchard, such as on a family farm, the abundance of fruit can naturally draw these birds to your property. Consider planting native fruit trees like persimmon, pawpaw, or mulberry.
Full-Sized Observations:
Non-GMO Grains: Turkeys enjoy a varied diet, including seeds and grains. Planting non-GMO grains in your yard can provide them with a reliable food source. Water Sources: Ensure that your yard has a fresh water source, such as a wading pool. Turkeys rely on water for drinking as well as cleaning and preening activities. Wildlife-Friendly Landscaping: Natural settings with diverse vegetation can attract more wild turkeys. Incorporate native plants and a mix of grasses and shrubs to create a habitat that suits their needs.Creating a Turkey-Friendly Environment
Wild turkeys, like most wildlife, are drawn to areas with ample food and shelter. A simple yet effective way to attract them is to reduce the amount of human activity in your yard. When they perceive less disturbance, they are more likely to visit and settle.
Less Is More:
Landscaping for Privacy: Tall trees and thickets can provide turkeys with shelter from predators and humans. Consider planting larger hardwood trees like oaks, hickories, or beeches, as these offer the perfect roosting spots. Cow Pies as Lure: Interestingly, some owners who keep cattle have found that turkeys are attracted to areas where cows have grazed. The turkeys are likely drawn to the nutrients and insects in the cow pies. Providing similar conditions by creating a habitat rich in organic matter can be beneficial.Additional Tips for Attraction
For those looking to attract wild turkeys, here are a few more strategies to consider:
Bush Hogging:
Clearing Fields: If you have fields or large open spaces, using a bush hog can help mimic the kind of habitat that turkeys naturally prefer. By clearing overgrown areas and allowing the soil to be exposed, you create a field that is more inviting to turkeys. Natural Food Foraging: After clear-cutting, the exposed soil can stimulate the growth of seeds and other vegetation that turkeys love to forage for. This creates a cycle where the cleared land is quickly turned into a rich habitat.Conclusion
Attracting wild turkeys to your yard is a rewarding endeavor that requires a bit of patience and knowledge about their natural behavior. By providing a diverse array of food sources, suitable habitats, and reducing human disturbance, you can create an inviting environment for these beautiful birds to visit and stay.