i have a few wild turkeys around my house and was wondering if u could explain a habit that they do....its a hot summer day 100

[Dan]

i have a few wild turkeys around my house and was wondering if u could explain a habit that they do....its a hot summer day 100 plus in the sun and all but one of them will lay down in the dirt, sun and cover themselves with a wing with shade 10 feet away.....i was told it was to cool themselves while they slept and the one standing was on watch...if this was the case why wouldn't they move into the shade cover? thank u for ur time Dan

[Oledeertracker]

FeatherRiverDan : could they be dusting themselfs?

[charlie elk]

Agree Oledeertracker; sounds like they are dusting. They do this prevent and remove the mites from their feathers. The dirt is drier in the sun making it easier for them to cover themselves.