The Australian brush turkey population in Sydney has dramatically increased, with sightings now reported in 300 suburbs, a significant rise from just 20 suburbs two decades ago. This expansion has been documented through the citizen science app Big City Birds, co-founded by zoologist Dr. John Martin. The birds, known for their unique nesting behavior, have become more prevalent in urban settings, often competing with the ibis for food. Residents have reported seeing these turkeys in various locations, including busy roads, parks, and gardens. While they serve an ecological role by creating nesting mounds from leaf litter, many people consider them pests due to their tendency to dig up gardens. Brush turkeys are protected under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, having faced near extinction during the Great Depression. Despite their growing presence, the population in some northern NSW regions remains endangered. Dr. Martin emphasizes the importance of respecting these unique birds, which play a crucial role in their ecosystem.