OPP reminding residents not to stop for wildlife after turkey struck by Hwy. 417 traffic

An OPP officer attempts to catch a wild turkey that had wandered onto Highway 417 in Ottawa on Thursday, April 9, 2026. (OPP/X)

Ontario Provincial Police say a wild turkey was struck and killed in traffic on Highway 417 in Ottawa despite attempts to catch the bird and get it to safety.

Police said several members of the public pulled over on the busy highway near St. Laurent Boulevard to try and help the turkey Thursday morning, which led to officers attempting to catch it because of safety concerns for other drivers.

“We do not recommend people stop along the highways to try and rescue wildlife. That area is particularly dangerous as the road is winding and other drivers might not see the parked cars until the last second,” said Ottawa OPP Const. Michael Fathi.

Police issued a warning on social media to drivers, asking them to be careful as officers attempted to catch the animal.

Despite several attempts, the bird ended up being struck by a vehicle.

“Officers were able to herd the turkey into a grassy area of the 417. Unfortunately, the turkey went back onto the highway. Officers then herded it over again, but again, the turkey went back onto the highway. Officers tried for a third time to herd it over, but this time, the turkey jumped over the centre median and was struck by oncoming traffic and died,” Fathi said.

“While we know it’s sad to see any wildlife killed by vehicle traffic, it could be far worse if there are vehicle collisions that result in injuries to people.”

Fathi said animal control officers do not attend calls on the highway and officers from the Ministry of Natural Resources were not able to arrive in time to assist police.

Wild turkeys are a regular sight in Ottawa. On Wednesday, passengers waiting for the O-Train on Line 2 at Carleton University saw one on the tracks.

River Ward Coun. Riley Brockington held a meeting Tuesday night aimed at helping residents navigate encounters with urban wildlife like turkeys, coyotes, foxes and rats.

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