Tom of Ðǿմ«Ã½ is species #826 identified on campus
On April 9, 1,000 Species project coordinator and Biology faculty member Brian Mader’s phone started lighting up with messages from the Ðǿմ«Ã½ community.
“There’s a turkey at Ðǿմ«Ã½!â€� was the gist of his 30+ messages.
The turkey was seen by many staff and students and was entered into the 1,000 Species in 1,000 Days official count on t.
Brian is not surprised that a turkey showed up on campus since many have been spotted in Westmount. “Maybe he was looking for more turkeys,� he speculated. “They nest around this time of year but in groups.�
The lone Ðǿմ«Ã½ turkey was thought to be a male, also known as a tom or a gobbler. He was spotted near the theatre garden, on the roof and in one of the rooftop gardens.
“If you see the turkey, like all wildlife, give it space and respect,� Brian advised. “And please do not feed the turkey!�
Last month, the City of Westmount issued an advisory to residents saying that “wild turkeys are being spotted more regularly in Westmount,� and said that residents should not approach them or feed them.