How to deal with problem Wild turkey in Connecticut

Wild turkey

Wild turkey

The wild turkey is native to North America and can be found over most of the eastern two-thirds of the U.S. with small pockets along the west coast and in Mexico. Wild turkeys prefer relatively open hardwood and mixed evergreen hardwood forests with scattered openings. Some turkeys can be found in woodlots relatively close to human population centers. Despite their large size, wild turkeys (unlike their domestic relatives) are agile fliers and roost in trees. Wild turkeys are social birds and live in flocks. Wild turkeys are omnivorous and typically forage on the ground for acorns, nuts, seeds, berries, fruits, grasses, roots, insects, and small amphibians and reptiles. Wild turkeys often feed in cow pastures and favor croplands after harvest to scavenge seed on the ground. Turkeys can be attracted to bird feeders. Occasionally, turkeys may behave aggressively towards humans, especially in areas where natural woodland habitats are scarce or where people have been feeding them. They have been known to chase humans; however, attacks can usually be deterred and minor injuries can be avoided by giving turkeys a respectful amount of space.

Laws and regulations to be aware of

Regulations for Connecticut

Trapping and shooting general information for homeowners

Outside of regulated seasons, homeowners are strictly prohibited from trapping and shooting wildlife, unless the animal has been causing property damage or is an obvious threat to public health and safety. If trapping and/or shooting is undertaken under these circumstances, homeowners must still comply with the state’s regulated season trapping laws, which regulate trap types and sizes, baits and lures, location and placement, and how often traps must be checked  Homeowners must also comply with regulated season firearms laws, which regulate allowable weapons and ammunition, and discharge and shooting times.  Finally, homeowners must comply with all state and local firearms regulations and restrictions, and any other applicable local ordinances.  For regulated season trapping and shooting regulations and any other information on the regulated season, see the CT Hunting and Trapping Guide.  Please see the CT Law Library for information on state firearms regulations. Contact your municipality for information on local firearms restrictions and other applicable local ordinances.

Regulated hunting season

In Connecticut, there is a legal hunting season for this species.  Shooting may only be done by a licensed hunter or the landowner of the property, and hunters must follow all laws and regulations regarding allowable weapons and ammunition.  Check the CT Hunting and Trapping Guide for information on season dates and required permits, and for any special conditions.

While we attempt to provide guidance about state and federal regulations pertaining to specific species and control techniques, we do not provide information about local jurisdictions (city, town, county, etc.) where regulations may be more restrictive, especially as it applies to discharge of firearms, transport of animals or use of trapping equipment. Contact your local city or county government to inquire further. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. You should become familiar with federal, state and local laws before beginning any wildlife control activities.