Wild Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) reacted in different ways yesterday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge when they detected my presence. One turkey seemed to panic, put down its head, and sprinted to the other side, while the other calmly strode across the trail. Both reached the other side safely. Was this the turkey version of social distancing?
How do you react in the face of a perceived threat? These days, this question is not merely an academic one—it is part of our daily lives. I think we all experience moments of panic, but we can choose not to let those feelings overwhelm us. Stay safe and healthy within the limits imposed on you by the current crisis and be sure to take care of yourselves.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Thanks Mike! And stay safe also!
Social distancing, from humans, is well understood among them, Mike. Maybe some realize you only have a camera.
Stay safe
[…] backyard. The other day, a FB friend/fellow wildlife photographer posted a shot of a tom turkey (https://michaelqpowell.com/2020/03/22/panic-or-calm/) that looked quite a bit different than the one I have been seeing in my backyard. I thought it […]
Keep moving is the answer, even if it feels rude. So often we stop and chat, catch up with those we know, share a sighting… remember turkey two and stride along!
I’m leaning toward “walk, don’t run,” but I’m in full favor of purposeful, determined, and informed walking.
In almost all aspects of life, it seems to me, “purposeful, determined, and informed walking” is a prudent course of action. I have always been a fan of the slogan, “don’t confuse activity with progress”–purposefulness is really critical.
[…] backyard. The other day, a FB friend/fellow wildlife photographer posted a shot of a tom turkey (https://michaelqpowell.com/2020/03/22/panic-or-calm/) that looked quite a bit different than the one I have been seeing in my backyard. I thought it […]