Brush Turkeys

Brush Turkey

Brush Turkeys are native birds reemerging in urban areas where they used to flourish.

Brush Turkeys are a unique and important bird to the natural ecosystem and plays a role in breaking down organic matter and controlling insect populations in parks. They use the heat of the mound to incubate their eggs and the temperature of the mound affects the gender of the offspring.

Brush Turkeys are a timid and shy bird and will generally leave humans and pets alone. Do not allow your pets to chase the bird as this will cause them to defend itself. If you see a Brush Turkey, do not harm them as they are a protected species under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

You could discourage Brush Turkeys from establishing a mound on your property by:

  • Removing leaf litter or debris on the ground
  • Cover up mulch piles or exposed soil
  • Install wooden stakes or rocks in your garden to prevent the Brush Turkey from scratching the ground
  • Remove any water source such as a water bowl or pond
  • Remove any food source such as pet food
  • Consider planting more plants to increase density cover in your garden

There will be an increase in Brush Turkey activity during the breeding season (August – February) and they can make a mess, especially in gardens as they often use mulch to build their mounds.

For more information about the Brush Turkeys, click on the link below to download a factsheet by a Brush Turkey expert on how to live with them.

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