A notorious wild turkey in West Orange, New Jersey, dubbed 'Turkules,' became a local celebrity.
After engaging in disruptive behavior including stopping traffic and displaying aggression, he was finally captured and pardoned just in time for Thanksgiving, bringing an end to the weeks-long pursuit.
At one point, Turkules was seen wandering into traffic on Pleasant Valley Way. However, he was still unscathed and survived after the collision.
West Orange said, 'Had it not been for the number of complaints the township had received with regard to Turkules' aggressive behavior concerning pedestrians, joggers, bicyclists, and motorists, township officials would have been content to allow Turkules to remain as long as he wanted.'
In an announcement, the township revealed that Turkules was successfully captured after evading officials for an extended period.
He received a pardon from the mayor, sparing him from becoming a part of a holiday feast.
Turkules had gained local fame after defiantly strutting around, even after being hit with a tranquilizer dart in his chest. He also showed no fear and walked across busy intersections
Then, the official decided to relocate him to an undisclosed location in the state.
Despite the move, some residents believe he may find his way back, with one resident describing him as a "gangster" who tends to return.
Turkules had become a local hero, honored as a hometown hero by businesses like Willow and Olivia, and even had a created Facebook page where community members shared sightings.
In collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society and other small businesses, Turkules merchandise, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, ornaments, and decals, was launched, with a portion of the sales contributing to the conservation society.
