Trouble with Turkeys in Red Lodge

wild turkeyResidents here are being asked to stop feeding a flock of wild turkeys that has decided the living is easier in town.

A news release issued Friday by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, officials said some residents are feeding a flock of turkeys, creating an "unnatural, unhealthy concentration of turkeys in town."

State wildlife and city officials, including the mayor and police chief, are also reminding Red Lodge residents that fines for feeding the birds could be up to $300.

The consequences of continuing to feed the birds "include a flock of turkeys that is dependant on unnatural food sources, possible avian diseases resulting from the unnatural concentration, bird droppings in places frequented by residents and pets, and possible attraction of bears, deer, lions and unintended wildlife," the press release states.

MORE>>>KPAX