Besides other values of tree-roosting, morning fly outs and dusk fly ins
are social occasions for turkey flocks. They spend quite a bit of time
calling and milling around the takeoff sites, seeking consensus? Finally
one lifts off and before long they all have gone into lower fir branches
and started laddering up.
Dawn sees reverse process, with apparent discussion about whether it is
light enough yet and all are ready. Once down, the flock mostly stays near
landing site till all are down and ready to head into fields for daily
feeding.
We usually have ~ 40 birds in wintering flocks. They are just coalescing
now as protective hens bring young to integrate carefully into the
"grown-up" flock with toms. Turkey mothers are very watchful and protective
of their young. Families remain at the edges of flock until they see the
males are not trying to chase the youngsters--or that they can outrun any
that display hostility.
Even turkeys are entertaining to bird watch if one keeps at it long enough.
Someday I may decide to share my anecdote about the flock that would follow
me and my cat for walks. But I'll put a warning in the subject line;-]
Regards,
Sally Nelson, west of Creswell.
