Turkeys are in town — and they’re stirring up trouble.

Wild turkeys are making their presence known across Metro Detroit, leading to unexpected encounters and prompting innovative responses.

In April 2025, a 19-year-old driver from Sterling Heights experienced a startling incident when a turkey flew into his pickup truck's windshield on I-96 near Fowlerville Road. Remarkably, he maintained control and avoided injury, though the turkey did not survive. This event underscores the increasing interactions between humans and turkeys in urban settings.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has observed a significant rise in turkey populations statewide. Once nearly extinct in the early 20th century, wild turkeys now inhabit every county in Michigan. This resurgence has led to more frequent sightings in both rural and urban areas, including backyards and neighborhoods. While many appreciate their return, some turkeys have become aggressive, chasing pedestrians and obstructing traffic.

To address these challenges, the DNR advises residents to avoid feeding turkeys, as this can lead to habituation and increased boldness. They recommend removing bird feeders and using deterrents like loud noises or water sprays to discourage turkeys from settling in residential areas. For particularly aggressive birds, the DNR suggests contacting local offices for assistance.

In an innovative approach, mechanical engineering students at the University of Michigan are developing a dog-like robot designed to deter turkeys from campus areas. This artificial intelligence-driven robot aims to safely and ethically encourage turkeys to move away from populated spaces, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.

As wild turkeys continue to thrive in Michigan, balancing their conservation success with public safety remains a priority. Through community efforts and technological innovations, residents and wildlife can coexist peacefully.