Wild turkeys perform three important behaviors for self-maintenance: dusting, sunning, and anting, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
Dusting involves both adult birds and poults laying on their breasts and flapping their wings, tossing dirt over themselves. While it may look like the birds are having a meltdown, the behavior helps keep their feathers in good condition, the department said.
Turkeys also sun themselves by lying on their sides with one wing and leg extended into direct sunlight. This behavior helps regulate body temperature, maintain feather health, and remove moisture after rain. It can also dislodge parasites.
Anting, another behavior, involves turkeys dusting in ant mounds, allowing ants to crawl through their feathers. The department noted this helps reduce parasites like feather mites and biting lice, especially during late summer and early fall when molting occurs.
The department added that although these behaviors may seem strange, they are part of a smart routine that supports turkey health. More information about turkey daily habits is available at this link.
Jon R Myers is the executive editor of Alcorn County News and the founder of the Mississippi News Group, which he started in 2013 to cover communities across North Mississippi. He also founded the Mississippi Sports Group in 2006, which grew from a single community publication into a statewide network covering high school and college athletics. He reports on local government, public safety, schools and community life in Corinth and Alcorn County, working from public meetings, agency records and interviews with the people involved. Contact him at editor@alcornnewsms.com with news tips or corrections. For a correction, include the article link and supporting source material.
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