The case of the "dangerous" turkeys.

GRUNDY CENTER --- Poultry feed scattered along the treeline failed to lure any baby turkeys Thursday evening.
A few downy feathers suggest they might be alive and well. Or they may indicate the chicks became a meal for an owl, fox or stray cat.
As the days pass with no other sign, Mindy Hamann fears the latter. She's already found one of the seven birds dead.
The young flock was orphaned Tuesday afternoon when Police Chief Brock Gilbert shot and killed a hen and tom behind Pheasant Hollow apartments on D Avenue, according to residents. The adult turkeys had reportedly harassed people in the area and were leaving droppings on lawns.
The move appalled some residents and animal rights activists, but Mayor Rex Van Wert said the decision came as a last resort.
Police responded to multiple complaints about the birds tearing up gardens and chasing kids from a sandbox and swing set during the past six weeks, he said.
A few months ago, six or so turkeys raised on the edge of town --- but allowed to roam freely --- began nesting and roosting along the nature trail. The area is near Arlington Place, a senior living community.
Their owner captured all but one of the birds. The remaining turkey found a mate and started a family, however.
In recent weeks, the pair had grown aggressive and protective of their hatchlings. The county conservation office declined to assist because the turkeys were semi-domesticated, Van Wert said.
"On their recommendation, then, we shot them," he added.

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Grundy Center is located in the middle of a farming area.The town is relatively tiny with a population of 2500 or so.How hard would it be to relocate half tame turkeys to a location away from the town itself?Is it more a case of the police wanting some excitement and target practice?