ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Ted the turkey from Willmar made the most of a moment in the spotlight at the Capitol by literally flying the coop during a “sendoff” ceremony with Gov. Mark Dayton and Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

Ted is one of about 30 turkeys cared for by four Willmar FFA members and groomed for a big job. Two of the birds, along with the students, will travel to Washington next week where one will be declared the “National Thanksgiving Turkey” and both will be pardoned by President Obama.

Minutes after the ceremony started, Ted flapped up and out of a wire cage and wandered the room until his FFA minders grabbed him. After that, Agriculture Commissioner Dave Frederickson stood next to Ted and calmed the jerky turkey.

Minnesota produces more turkeys than any other U.S. state.

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