Wild Turkey Damage in Grapes
Return to Wildlife
Wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) can be major grape consumers, especially as fruit ripens. Damage includes total fruit loss, but large peck marks in berries may also be apparent. Damage occurs during daytime hours. Look for tracks or scat present around vines.
Wild turkey.
(Photo: jadimages, shutterstock.com)
Wild turkey tracks.
(Photo: U.S. National Parks System)
Wild turkey damage to grapes.
(Photo: John Strang, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- Deter birds using propane cannons and lasers.
- Netting is less effective.
- Vertical netting can help limit access to fruit.
- Hunting to reduce numbers aids in long term management.
