STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — A wild turkey briefly halted traffic on Wednesday after stepping into a crosswalk in front of an MTA bus.
The incident occurred on Victory Boulevard, near a stone wall and with snow still visible on the curb. Bus No. 8256 came to a full stop as the turkey stood on the crosswalk, appearing to observe a poster advertising Manhattan’s Museum of Sex.
A Growing Presence
These turkeys have turn into a notable part of Staten Island’s wildlife since the late 1990s, when domesticated turkeys were reportedly released near the South Beach Psychiatric Center and began breeding. Their population has grown over the decades, with flocks frequently seen crossing streets, roaming lawns, and gathering near landmarks like Northwell Staten Island University Hospital in Ocean Breeze.
The birds are known to cause traffic disruptions along Seaview Avenue and surrounding streets. Past efforts by conservation and city agencies to relocate or manage the turkey population have had limited success.
Transportation officials have not commented on the turkey’s motivations, suggesting it may have been commuting, sightseeing, or preparing for the Thanksgiving holiday. The turkey continued its stroll after the encounter, and no citations were issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the turkeys first observed on Staten Island?
The turkeys were first noticed in the late 1990s.
Where were the turkeys reportedly released?
The turkeys were reportedly released near the South Beach Psychiatric Center.
Has the city been successful in managing the turkey population?
Efforts by conservation and city agencies to relocate or manage the population have been met with mixed success.
As the Thanksgiving holiday remains nine months and eight days away, this encounter may serve as a reminder to appreciate functioning brakes.
