Turkeys Making New Friends

A couple of months ago we adopted a pair of young sibling kittens for the purpose of rodent control around the farm.  We were a little concerned that they wouldn't last, but they have fit right in and have been earning their keep ever since.  Hank and Hunter routinely kill mice, gophers, and rabbits (adults and babies).  Of course they usually leave a bloody carcass in the garage for me to clean up, but I am glad to have them around.  The cats have however put a damper on the bird watching on our back deck, as the bird feeder seems to just make it too easy for the cats to catch Blue Jays and Mourning Doves.

Several weeks ago, I allowed our two young turkeys to roam around on the lawn and had to be very careful because Hank and Hunter made it very clear that they wanted the turkeys for dinner.  Yesterday, I brought the turkeys out again and turned them loose for a little while.  I kept a close eye on the cats, but things have changed now that the turkeys are close to the size of a small chicken.

The turkeys had no idea that the cats were predators and actually seemed oblivious to the cat's very existence.  The cats on the other hand were very curious and followed the turkeys around for more than 20 minutes.  At first Hank and Hunter were in "stalking" mode, but quickly decided that it was not a good idea.  As the smaller turkey walked near Hunter, he acted like he was going to strike, but instead turned and ran away.  Hank just casually accepted the turkeys and lay still as they walked around him.

I am just glad to see everybody getting along for now.