How to Repel Turkeys From Your Property: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Repel Turkeys

Turkeys are a common sight in many parts of the United States, and while they can be beautiful and majestic creatures, they can also be a nuisance. They can make a mess in your yard, eat your crops, and even attack your pets. If you’re dealing with a problem with turkeys, there are a number of ways to repel them.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most effective methods for deterring turkeys from your property. We’ll cover everything from using visual deterrents to creating physical barriers. We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent turkeys from returning once you’ve gotten them to move on.

So whether you’re dealing with a few turkeys or a whole flock, read on for some helpful advice on how to get rid of them for good.

Method Materials Instructions
Scarecrow Old clothes, straw, sticks Stuff old clothes with straw and hang them from a stick in your yard. Move the scarecrow around every few days to keep the turkeys from getting used to it.
Motion-activated sprinkler Sprinkler, motion sensor Set up a motion-activated sprinkler in your yard. The sprinkler will spray water when it detects movement, which will scare the turkeys away.
Ropes and balloons Balloons, rope Tie balloons to ropes and hang them from trees or poles in your yard. The movement of the balloons will scare the turkeys away.
Reflective tape Reflective tape Stick reflective tape around your yard. The shiny tape will deter turkeys from entering your yard.
Cayenne pepper Cayenne pepper Sprinkle cayenne pepper around your yard. The spicy smell will deter turkeys from entering your yard.

How to Repel Turkeys?

Turkeys are large, noisy birds that can be a nuisance to homeowners. They can eat garden plants, damage property, and create a mess. If you have a problem with turkeys, there are a number of things you can do to repel them.

Visual Repellents

Visual repellents can help to scare turkeys away from your property. Some common visual repellents include:

  • Scare tactics. One of the most effective ways to scare turkeys is to make loud noises or sudden movements. You can do this by banging pots and pans, yelling, or using a motion-activated sprinkler.
  • Motion-activated devices. There are a number of motion-activated devices that can be used to scare turkeys. These devices emit a loud noise or a bright light when they detect movement, which can startle turkeys and make them leave.
  • Shiny objects. Shiny objects can also be used to scare turkeys. Turkeys are naturally afraid of predators, and they may be scared away by the sight of a shiny object that they mistake for a predator. You can hang shiny objects around your property, such as aluminum foil or pie tins.
  • Netting. Netting can be used to keep turkeys out of your garden or yard. You can install netting around your property or over your garden plants.

Aural Repellents

Aural repellents can also be used to repel turkeys. Some common aural repellents include:

  • High-pitched noises. Turkeys are sensitive to high-pitched noises, and they may be scared away by noises that are too loud or high-pitched for humans to hear. You can use a variety of devices to create high-pitched noises, such as a whistle, a siren, or a barking dog.
  • Recorded turkey distress calls. Turkeys are also sensitive to the sound of other turkeys in distress. You can use a recording of a turkey in distress to scare other turkeys away.
  • Ultrasonic devices. Ultrasonic devices emit high-pitched sounds that are inaudible to humans but can be heard by turkeys. These devices can be used to create a continuous sound that will keep turkeys away.

Combination Repellents

You can also use a combination of visual and aural repellents to repel turkeys. This can be more effective than using a single type of repellent. For example, you could use a motion-activated sprinkler and a high-pitched noisemaker to scare turkeys away.

If you have a problem with turkeys, there are a number of things you can do to repel them. By using visual, aural, or combination repellents, you can keep turkeys out of your property and enjoy your yard without having to worry about these pesky birds.

Additional Tips

  • If you have a problem with turkeys, it is important to be persistent. Turkeys are smart animals, and they may not be deterred by the first repellent you try. It may take some time and effort to find the repellent that works best for you.
  • When using visual repellents, it is important to make sure that the repellent is visible to the turkeys. This means that you may need to place the repellent in a location where the turkeys are likely to see it.
  • When using aural repellents, it is important to make sure that the noise is loud enough to scare the turkeys. You may need to experiment with different volumes to find the one that works best.
  • When using combination repellents, it is important to make sure that the repellents are used in a way that complements each other. For example, you could use a motion-activated sprinkler and a high-pitched noisemaker to scare turkeys away.

By following these tips, you can effectively repel turkeys from your property and enjoy your yard without having to worry about these pesky birds.

3. Olfactory Repellents

Olfactory repellents are substances that emit a strong smell that turkeys find unpleasant. These repellents can be used to deter turkeys from entering your yard or garden, or from eating your crops.

Strong scents

Some strong scents that turkeys dislike include:

  • Ammonia
  • Chili powder
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Garlic
  • Mint
  • Vinegar

To use these scents as repellents, you can:

  • Soak rags in the scent and place them around your yard or garden.
  • Spray the scent around your yard or garden.
  • Sprinkle the scent on your crops.

Predator urine

Predator urine is another effective repellent for turkeys. Turkeys are afraid of predators, so the smell of their urine will deter them from entering your yard or garden.

You can purchase predator urine online or at some pet stores. To use it as a repellent, you can:

  • Spray the urine around your yard or garden.
  • Soak rags in the urine and place them around your yard or garden.

Mothballs

Mothballs are another effective repellent for turkeys. The smell of mothballs is unpleasant to turkeys, and it can also irritate their eyes and respiratory system.

To use mothballs as a repellent, you can:

  • Place mothballs around your yard or garden.
  • Hang mothballs from trees or shrubs.

4. Physical Barriers

Physical barriers are another effective way to keep turkeys out of your yard or garden. These barriers can be made of a variety of materials, including:

  • Fencing
  • Netting
  • Wire mesh
  • Chicken wire

To deter turkeys, the barrier should be at least 8 feet tall and should be made of a material that turkeys cannot easily penetrate. You can also make the barrier more effective by:

  • Putting chicken wire or netting over the top of the fence.
  • Anchoring the fence to the ground so that turkeys cannot dig under it.
  • Placing a decoy owl or hawk near the fence.

By using a combination of olfactory repellents and physical barriers, you can effectively keep turkeys out of your yard or garden. These methods are safe and effective, and they will help you to enjoy your outdoor space without having to worry about turkeys.

How do I repel turkeys?

There are a number of ways to repel turkeys from your property. Some of the most effective methods include:

  • Using visual deterrents. Turkeys are easily startled by bright colors and shiny objects. Hanging reflective balloons, streamers, or Mylar strips around your property can help to keep them away. You can also try placing plastic owls or snakes in areas where turkeys are known to congregate.
  • Using auditory deterrents. Turkeys are also sensitive to noise. Playing recordings of predator calls, such as hawks or coyotes, can help to scare them away. You can also try using a motion-activated sprinkler to startle them.
  • Using olfactory deterrents. Turkeys dislike the smell of certain herbs and spices. Planting these around your property can help to keep them away. Some of the most effective repellents include garlic, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
  • Using physical barriers. If all else fails, you can try using a physical barrier to keep turkeys out of your property. This could include a fence, a wire mesh, or a chicken wire enclosure.

What are some common problems with turkeys?

Turkeys can cause a number of problems for homeowners, including:

  • Damage to property. Turkeys can scratch up lawns, damage gardens, and eat crops. They can also leave behind droppings that can be unsightly and a health hazard.
  • Noise pollution. Turkeys are very vocal birds, and their calls can be disruptive, especially early in the morning.
  • Predation. Turkeys can prey on small animals, such as chickens, ducks, and rabbits.

How can I prevent turkeys from coming onto my property?

The best way to prevent turkeys from coming onto your property is to make it as unattractive to them as possible. This means taking steps to remove any food sources, water sources, and shelter that they may be attracted to. You should also try to keep your property clean and free of debris, as this can also attract turkeys.

Here are some specific tips for preventing turkeys from coming onto your property:

  • Remove all food sources. This includes birdseed, pet food, and fallen fruit.
  • Cover all water sources. This includes birdbaths, ponds, and swimming pools.
  • Remove all shelter. This includes brush piles, dense vegetation, and abandoned buildings.
  • Keep your property clean and free of debris. This includes leaves, grass clippings, and trash.
  • Install a physical barrier. If all else fails, you can try using a fence, a wire mesh, or a chicken wire enclosure to keep turkeys out of your property.

What if I already have turkeys on my property?

If you already have turkeys on your property, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them.

  • Use visual deterrents. Hang reflective balloons, streamers, or Mylar strips around your property. Place plastic owls or snakes in areas where turkeys are known to congregate.
  • Use auditory deterrents. Play recordings of predator calls, such as hawks or coyotes. Use a motion-activated sprinkler to startle them.
  • Use olfactory deterrents. Plant herbs and spices around your property that turkeys dislike, such as garlic, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
  • Use physical barriers. If all else fails, you can try using a fence, a wire mesh, or a chicken wire enclosure to keep turkeys out of your property.

It is important to note that getting rid of turkeys can be a challenge, and it may take some time and effort. However, by following these tips, you can increase your chances of success.

How do I humanely trap and relocate turkeys?

If you need to trap and relocate turkeys, there are a few things you can do to make the process as humane as possible.

  • Use a live trap. A live trap is the most humane way to trap turkeys. Make sure the trap is large enough for the turkeys to move around comfortably and that it has a secure door.
  • Place the trap in a location where the turkeys are likely to be. This could include a field, a wooded area, or a backyard.
  • Cover the trap with a tarp or blanket. This will help to calm the turkeys and make them less likely to panic.
  • Set the trap baited with food. Turkeys are omnivorous, so they will eat a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, and grains.
  • Check the trap regularly. Once the turkeys are inside the trap, you should relocate them to a new location as soon

Turkeys can be a nuisance, but there are a number of ways to repel them. By using a combination of methods, you can keep turkeys out of your yard and enjoy your outdoor space without having to worry about them.

  • Use visual deterrents, such as motion-activated lights, decoys, and reflective tape.
  • Make your yard less attractive to turkeys by removing food sources and providing them with alternative places to roost.
  • Install a fence or netting around your yard to keep turkeys out.
  • Use repellents, such as noisemakers, scents, and sprays.

If you have a problem with turkeys, try using a combination of these methods to find the solution that works best for you. With a little effort, you can keep turkeys out of your yard and enjoy your outdoor space without any trouble.

Here are some additional tips for repelling turkeys:

  • Be patient. It may take some time for the repellents to work.
  • Be consistent. Use the repellents regularly to keep turkeys away.
  • Monitor your yard. Check for signs of turkeys, such as droppings or feathers. If you see any signs, reapply the repellents.
  • Encourage natural predators. Hawks, owls, and coyotes can help to keep turkeys away from your yard.

By following these tips, you can keep turkeys out of your yard and enjoy your outdoor space without any trouble.

Author Profile

Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

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