Turkeys on the loose in Sussex

Turkeys have been spotted in several places in Sussex. Credit Kathy Martyn

March 2010. 12 Turkeys have been spotted in different locations roaming freely round Sussex Towns and Villages over the past 3 weeks.

The most recent report was of 2 turkeys on a wall in Lewes. There have also been recent sightings of 7 Turkeys roaming around Alfriston and 3 turkeys wandering around Glynde village.

Volunteer rescuers from East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service have been called out to all these incidents by numerous local residents who were wondering what the unusual visitors are to their gardens.

Not farm turkeys
"I've not known anything like this, getting so many calls about turkeys in different locations like this. I don't think they are farm turkeys as they can all fly." said Rescue Co-ordinator Trevor Weeks from East Sussex WRAS.

A turkey in a tree in Alfriston, Sussex. Credit Kathy Martyn

"We have had complaints about the damage they cause in gardens; people worried about the turkey's safety and worried that they will get caught by foxes or hit by cars. We have only managed to catch the ones at Glynde have, all the others have flown up into trees when we approach them" added Trevor.

Invasive species
WRAS is unsure whether a well meaning turkey lover is dumping them or letting them go or why there is suddenly such a spate of turkeys running loose. "I secretly hope that these were purchased before Christmas and then their owners turned vegetarian and couldn't eat them, but it would be a shame if they were injured by a car as a result of them escaping or being released" said Trevor.

WRAS is urging people to ensure their enclosures are secure and that their turkeys and other domestic or agricultural animals are safe and cannot escape. "If one of these birds causes an accident the owner would be liable for the damage caused not to speak of the suffering the bird would go through." Said Trevor, "if you do not want your pet turkeys any more contact one of the animal sanctuaries across Sussex to find a new home for them."