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Sterilize, Trap or Kill? Davis Faces Turkey Troubles As Fowl Population Nears 100

DAVIS (CBS13) — Dozens of Davis residents turned out for a turkey town hall as up to 100 wild birds have settled in the city and won't go away.

"They are finding urban living to be quite suitable," said Davis city wildlife resource specialist John McNerney.

City leaders heard from both friends and foe of the fowl at the meeting.

The wild birds settled in about a decade ago, and the flock has now grown to about 100.

"They're unchecked; there's no natural predation, they're getting plenty of food, they're reproducing here," he said.

That's leading to a spike in complaints. Now the city is weighing whether to trap, relocate or even sterilize the birds. Euthanization is one of the least costly options, but is opposed by many.

"They are a challenge, they are a nuisance, but there are ways we can live with them," he said.

A final decision is expected to be made by the fall.

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