ASHWAUBENON, WI (WTAQ) – A local turkey has turned into a neighborhood celebrity in Ashwaubenon, but officials are reminding citizens that he should get his own food.
“Smoke” the turkey has been spotted in the area for months, but Ashwaubenon ordinance provides a $187 fine for feeding wild animals, such as deer and turkeys.
These wild animals should be self-sufficient, according to public safety officers.
The bird has predominantly been seen roaming through neighborhoods on the village’s west side.
Officers with Ashwaubenon Public Safety posted on their Facebook page that leaving the turkey alone his best for him and for residents.
“Please consider that trying to keep “Smoke” around a neighborhood is also keeping him from interacting in an environment where there are other turkeys and when mating season comes about he will continue to wander into traffic.
There are people that complain that this turkey is ruining their yards and some that want him to stay. He runs in traffic and blocks intersections. He chases people and cars and kids on bikes.
We encourage allowing nature to be nature and allow “Smoke” to move along and find suitable companionship rather than roaming on our streets right next to I-41 which in no doubt may just get the best of him.”
