Why did the turkey cross the road in Hartley?
Nobody knows, but it's sure turning heads
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NICK PEDLEY/SENTINEL-NEWS
The bird in question crosses Eighth Avenue East in Hartley on Friday morning. The hen was willing to let the photographer get within 4 feet of her, but ultimately got annoyed and moved away from prying eyes.
If any more turkeys show up in Hartley, school officials may have to consider changing H-M-S's nickname from the Hawks to the Gobblers.
Many residents have been somewhat surprised in recent weeks to see a female wild turkey hanging out inside city limits. The hen has been spotted all over the place, even near downtown.
O'Brien County Conservation naturalist Lindsey Craig explained Hartley's visitor isn't exactly unique.
"Turkeys seem to have a mind of their own and have been spotted in other towns too," she said. "I recently heard a story of a sighting in front of a hospital where they made it hard for people to get inside."
NICK PEDLEY/SENTINEL-NEWS
Hartley's turkey takes a rest in the yard of David and Jodi Scroggin on Friday morning.
The sight of an "urban" wild turkey in town is new to most, but the birds are commonly seen throughout the state. According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the state's native population was wiped out by 1910 but was reintroduced in the 1960s. Since then, populations have rebounded and the birds have adapted to Iowa's diverse landscape.
Hartley's turkey doesn't seem to be bothered by its new neighbors – many people have noted how tame it seems. Craig offered some tips and a warning to those who come into contact with it.
"Turkeys follow a 'pecking order,' so if you come across one it is best to stand your ground and try to scare them off instead of letting them scare you," she said. "As their mating season comes to an end, males might be looking for last minute mates that have wandered into town, so keep your eyes out for nests."
