Turkeys, like deer can be a threat to motorists

While most drivers in Wisconsin are aware of the dangers deer pose when they run in front of vehicles, another, lesser thought of wild animal can be equally as dangerous.

Turkeys are not usually thought of as flyers, but when they do, they fly only a couple feet above the ground. With their size and weight, they can be quite a damaging threat if hit at highway speeds. While not as common as deer crashes, turkey vs vehicle crashes do happen.

Such was the case Monday afternoon, April 29, 2024, when a driver collided with a turkey on Highway 151 near Winnebago Park Road on the east side of Lake Winnebago. The turkey reportedly crashed through the vehicle’s windshield, striking the driver causing injuries. Mount Calvary Ambulance and Town of Calumet Fire Department responded to that crash.

The DNR says like deer, if a turkey is killed in a traffic collision, it must first be registered with the DNR if the driver or a passerby would like to claim the bird. No other tags or hunting registration is needed beforehand to claim it.