Police officers capture wild turkey that wandered into Vernon Hills store, climbed onto shelf

Police were called on Saturday to Menards, 1860 Milwaukee Avenue in Vernon Hills, after a wild turkey entered the store and made its way to a high shelf. The animal was captured and released nearby. | Provided Photo

Police officers responded to an unusual call after a wild turkey walked into a Menards store in Vernon Hills and the officers had to remove the animal.

The Vernon Hills Police Department said on Saturday they were called to Menards, 1860 Milwaukee Avenue, for an animal complaint.

A wild turkey strolled into the store and it took officers 30 minutes of teamwork to remove the animal and release it safely.

Police were called on Saturday to Menards, 1860 Milwaukee Avenue in Vernon Hills, after a wild turkey entered the store and made its way to a high shelf. The animal was captured and released nearby. | Provided Photo

The turkey had made its way to a high shelf in the store, complicating the removal.

Police disputed allegations that the officers mishandled the bird while laughing about it. “It was handled with care and released to the wetlands adjacent to Menards.”

Police officials said they believe the turkey is a regular in the area as it is often seen around.

The police department said the capture of the wild turkey was a first for the officers, while joking that it is not Thanksgiving yet.