A Wild Turkey In NYC Keeps Running From The NYPD

MIDTOWN EAST, NY — A wild turkey was spotted sprinting in traffic on Tuesday morning at East 59th Street and First Avenue, New York City Police Department officials said.

According to the NYPD, locals called 911 at 8:37 a.m. to report the incident, and when police arrived, animal rescuers unsuccessfully attempted to capture the wild turkey, who flew away. No injuries — human or fowl — were reported, police said.

The turkey, named Astoria, is a local celebrity on Roosevelt Island but crossed the East River on Sunday and has been out on the town in Manhattan ever since, according to the "Manhattan Bird Alert" X (formerly Twitter) account.

According to David Barrett, an Upper East Sider who runs the account, Astoria was seen Monday night roosting on a balcony on 58th Street between First Avenue and Sutton Place. Tuesday morning's attempted capture was Astoria's second run-in with the NYPD in just two days, Barrett told Patch.

Though Manhattan may be an interesting change of scenery for Astoria, it is not in her best interest to stay there, due to the perpetual threat of fast cars and dogs, Barrett said.

"We're all hoping she goes back to Roosevelt Island as soon as possible because she has a great life there," Barrett told Patch, adding that the roadways on Roosevelt Island have special "turkey crossing" signs and dog-free yards for Astoria to roam. "It's a place where she has people who take care of her and provide for her."

It's likely Astoria crossed the river looking for love — turkey mating season is most active between March and April in the northeast, according to the National Wild Turkey Federation.

Unfortunately, Manhattan has no other wild turkeys, Barrett said. Astoria would have to go to Staten Island or the Bronx to find a mate, Barrett said.

For whoever finds Astoria next, Barrett recommends reaching out to the birders of Manhattan Bird Alert, who take care of her on Roosevelt Island. Barrett said that calling Animal Control or the NYPD could do more harm than good.

"Do not call Animal Control, and do not call the NYPD," Barrett said. "Just keep your distance and enjoy her. She's a beautiful turkey. Don't startle her."

This is a developing story and may be updated. If you see Astoria, please email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.

This article was updated with quotes and information from David Barrett.