The state Department of Conservation said an Erie County woman got a rude awakening last week when a wayward turkey broke into her home.
It was March 23 when the woman heard a large bang and crash from her upstairs bedroom. She discovered a turkey had busted through a glass window.
The DEC said the woman summoned up the courage to confine the wild bird to an upstairs bathroom, by closing the door until Environmental Conservation Officer Timothy Machnica arrived to assist.
The turkey, however, seemed to know how close it was to the Easter and Passover holidays and was not fit to be tied. Not wanting to end up a main course, the foul bird flew around the bathroom, crashing into mirrors and walls, leaving broken glass everywhere.
At that point, Machnica knew he needed help to calm this wild one. He contacted fellow officer Tom Koepf for assistance.
The DEC said the two officers used a neighbor's fishing net to pin down the turkey, then grabbed the bird and brought it outside before it could cause further damage.
Little did the turkey know, spring hunting season does not begin until April 24. The DEC said the uninvited guest was set free and officers helped the woman clean up the mess left behind. No breaking and entering charges were lodged against the bird.
Thanks to the DEC for this story's headline.
