At this time of year, it’s typical to have turkey on our minds. But did you know that wild turkeys—now a common fixture in our woods, suburbs, and even cities—were once almost extinct in Massachusetts? Keep reading…

When Europeans first settled in this area, wild turkeys were plentiful. With an increasing population, over-hunting occurred and forests were cut down for farmland, eliminating the turkey’s habitat. In 1851, the last wild turkey in Massachusetts was killed on Mount Tom.

Thanks to land conservation and a reintroduction program in the 1970’s, wild turkeys are a great success story. Many other species haven’t been so lucky.

But Mass Audubon is giving wildlife a fighting chance. The 36,000 acres of land you have helped protect is home to more than 150 endangered and threatened native species.

On this upcoming Giving Tuesday, be a protector of wildlife with a gift to Mass Audubon.

Prefer not to wait? Make your gift today >