Turkey Cam

For the past couple of weeks I’ve had a hen frequent my bird feeder here at the caretaker’s cabin.  The squirrels and and an occasional raccoon scatter the sunflower seeds creating an ideal opportunity for turkeys to gobble up the leftovers.

This one particular hen has become a welcomed companion and seems quite comfortable with me watching from the back porch.  So, one rainy weekend I decided to mount my GoPro camera near the feeder with hopes of capturing some video to share with you.  With a bit of patience she did return.  She is typically alone but had now attracted a suitor.  You can view a short video clip at http://youtu.be/t_q7ywdR64o

The Toms, the male turkeys, are in full blown courtship mode from mid March through June strutting about like Mick Jagger with a touch of Elton John’s flamboyance.  Their awkward courtship can’t help but remind me of those high school dances we all attended.  Remember how the girls and guys stood on opposite sides of the gym and pretended not to notice each other?

As I watched this Tom get closer I really felt sorry for him. Despite his chivalry, the hen just never seemed to notice.  Sunflower seeds seemed to be her only concern.

Perhaps he’ll eventually win her affection but it’s tough out there.  Reflection Riding seems to have its fair share of Toms.  I have spotted a few chicks lately, or poults as they are called, so love is definitely in the air.  Perhaps one day soon she’ll return to the backyard with her offspring in tow.  Tom turkey is welcomed too!