Press Release: Encouraging Coexistence with Wild Turkeys in Martindale Road Area
City of St. Catharines and Humane Society of Greater Niagara Encourage Coexistence with Wild Turkeys in Martindale Road Area
St. Catharines, ON — November 7, 2025
The Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN) and City of St. Catharines are advising residents to exercise caution and patience following recent sightings of wild turkeys in the vicinity of Martindale Road and Highway 406.
The presence of the turkeys has sparked conversation among residents. While some view them as a public safety concern due to their proximity to traffic, others welcome their presence as part of the city’s natural wildlife population.
City officials and HSGN acknowledge both perspectives and given stringent restrictions on relocation they are urging residents to coexist respectfully with wildlife while remaining alert on the roads.
“Humane Society Animal Services Officers have responded to numerous calls over the past two weeks to assist in safely redirecting the turkeys away from high-traffic areas. However, even when response times are under five minutes, the birds are often 'gone about their business' by the time Officers arrive, a reminder that wild turkeys are fast, agile, and, yes, they can fly”, said Cindy Dunne, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Greater Niagara.
Turkeys are highly mobile and very difficult to capture safely said Senior Animal Services Officer Travis Chorney, who adds that even if captured, relocation is seldom a simple solution given the difficulty and heavy regulations.
“Even if relocation were permitted, turkeys often return to their original territory,” he explained. “Our role is to help guide them away from danger when possible and remind the community that we share our spaces with many species. Coexistence means allowing wildlife to go about their business while keeping a safe distance.”
Wild turkeys are naturally wary but can become accustomed to people in urban and suburban areas. They travel in flocks, particularly in the fall, and often forage along open fields, grassy roadsides, and wooded edges where seeds and insects are plentiful. While their presence can seem unusual, it is not uncommon for turkeys to wander through residential areas in search of food or safe roosting spots.
The HSGN and City remind residents that the trapping, relocation, or harm of wildlife is strictly regulated under provincial law. Residents should not attempt to feed, chase, or approach wild turkeys. Anyone observing aggressive behaviour, a safety risk, or interference with private property should contact the Humane Society for guidance.
“Public safety is always a priority, but it’s important that we handle these situations with respect for nature,” said Ward Councillor Marty Mako. “St. Catharines is fortunate to have green spaces that attract wildlife, and part of living here is learning how to coexist responsibly.”
The City and HSGN encourage drivers to remain alert along Martindale Road and the surrounding area, and to report immediate road hazards involving animals to the appropriate authorities.
For more information or to report a wildlife concern:
Humane Society of Greater Niagara
Cindy Dunne, Executive Director
Phone: 905-682-0767
Website: www.hsgn.ca
