A rare wild turkey was seen wandering around Manhattan after making a journey across the East River from Queens. The bird was first spotted in Long Island City before making its way to Midtown Manhattan where it roamed around 49th Street and Madison Avenue, causing confusion and delight among onlookers. Known for its speed and survival skills, the wild turkey proved to be a challenge to catch, flying over 40 to 50 miles per hour.
Despite only being able to fly short distances, the turkey managed to cross three miles over the East River and into Manhattan without any issues. Concerns were raised about the presence of the turkey in busy urban areas, with potential risks for both the bird and pedestrians. Nevertheless, the turkey managed to navigate the city streets and sidewalks safely, with the hope that it could find its way to Central Park where food would be more readily available.
Several bird enthusiasts and locals provided the turkey with food and water, with the bird showing a preference for blueberries. The turkey appeared to be relaxed and mellow despite its reputation for being irritable, delighting Manhattanites with the rare wildlife sighting. Turkeys are known to survive in urban greenspaces such as Central Park, where they can forage for insects and acorns, and have been spotted in other parks in Manhattan in the past.
Although sightings of wild turkeys in Manhattan are rare, they have been recorded in parks such as Central Park and Battery Park. The last sighting of a turkey in Central Park was in 2017, while between 2003 and 2014, a wild turkey named Zelda became famous for residing in Battery Park. Despite the presence of the turkey in Manhattan, animal control agencies had no immediate plans to capture the bird, as they generally prioritize rescuing animals that pose a threat to people or themselves.
Overall, the appearance of a wild turkey in Manhattan provided a unique connection with the wilderness for city residents. The bird’s ability to navigate busy urban areas and find food sources showcased its survival skills, leaving a lasting impression on those who witnessed the rare sighting. Despite the challenges of living in an urban environment, the wild turkey managed to adapt and coexist with human activities, adding a touch of nature to the bustling cityscape of Manhattan.
