The wild turkey population within Brandon city limits will start the warmer season with reduced numbers in the months ahead following the trapping for relocation of a flock in the city’s South end this winter, a provincial spokesperson has shared.
According to the spokesperson a flock of 22 birds were trapped in January and are currently being held outside of the city, to be released in a rural area when temperatures warm.
When flocks grow beyond 20 in the city they are typically trapped for relocation, with the population being monitored by Wildlife and Fisheries in co-ordination with complaints received and in conjunction with animal control.
Turkeys are drawn to urban areas by an abundance of food such as bird feeders, large trees for roosting and the lack of presence of predators. According to the provincial spokesperson the total turkey population in Brandon isn’t known, though flocks of 10 to 20 are common with flocking in larger groups said to be more typical in winter. Brandon’s overall population isn’t viewed as being particularly large in comparison to some flocks in rural areas whose numbers can reach as much as 200. There’s thought to still possibly be an additional flock of about 20 in the city and a smaller group of three.
The topic of Brandon’s seemingly ever-present turkeys made a return this past week when an eBrandon member noted having come across fewer than normal birds in recent weeks. The general topic has seen much local discussion in recent years, with exchanges often being split between folks that accept the birds as a natural part of the environment and those who view them as a nuissance. The topic was raised at a 2019 Brandon City Council meeting with Richmond Ward councillor Ron Brown citing property damage concerns from residents.
For folks with concerns with turkeys in their yard in the winter months, it’s recommended avoiding putting out bird seed to feed. Deterrence with items such as scare owls or motion-activated sprinklers may have the desired effect during the summer.
Those with further concerns may contact the Conservation and Climate / Agriculture and Resource Development office at 204-726-6441