Brush turkeys are allegedly wreaking havoc at a well-known seaside cafe in Manly, with staff and customers reporting increasingly aggressive behaviour from the protected native birds.
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The Boathouse at Shelly Beach has seen a rise in incidents involving the birds, which have been stealing food, smashing plates and glasses, and even reportedly biting customers in their hunt for scraps. Staff said the issue has worsened over the past year as the brush turkey population around the area has grown significantly.
Although the birds have long roamed the nearby Bower Street Reserve and Shelly Beach Headland, recent changes in their behaviour, such as jumping onto tables and confronting diners, have made them a serious concern for both safety and business operations. Some patrons have reportedly stopped visiting the venue due to the persistent bird presence.
In response, The Boathouse has launched an online survey to gather feedback and document the extent of the problem. The aim is to use this information to engage further with the Northern Beaches Council and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to find a humane solution.
Local community group Good for Manly has acknowledged the growing issue, noting that “brush turkeys are becoming a real problem and continue to multiply.” The group said The Boathouse is actively searching for answers, adding that “these birds are starting to prove a real menace in the restaurant. They are protected, although many people are asking why.”
Brush turkeys are listed as a protected species under the Biodiversity Conservation Act, and any action to control them, such as relocation or deterrence—requires a government-issued licence. The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water oversees these regulations.
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Authorities are aware of the situation, with the council encouraging collaboration between The Boathouse and the relevant state department to ensure a solution that balances community concerns with native wildlife protection.
Published 25-July-2025
