Living Campus, Sustainability, Well-being for all
Tom of Dawson is species #826 identified on campus
On April 9, 1,000 Species project coordinator and Biology faculty member Brian Mader’s phone started lighting up with messages from the Dawson community.
“There’s a turkey at Dawson!” was the gist of his 30+ messages.
The turkey was seen by many staff and students and was entered into the 1,000 Species in 1,000 Days official count on iNaturalist.
Brian is not surprised that a turkey showed up on campus since many have been spotted in Westmount. “Maybe he was looking for more turkeys,” he speculated. “They nest around this time of year but in groups.”
The lone Dawson turkey was thought to be a male, also known as a tom or a gobbler. He was spotted near the theatre garden, on the roof and in one of the rooftop gardens.
“If you see the turkey, like all wildlife, give it space and respect,” Brian advised. “And please do not feed the turkey!”
Last month, the City of Westmount issued an advisory to residents saying that “wild turkeys are being spotted more regularly in Westmount,” and said that residents should not approach them or feed them.