TacomaNWTF.org

One of the finest ways to get a good scatter is to spook birds off the roost.  Theoretically, there's no better time to separate turkeys, but one simple step can make all the difference in the world.  Simply put, the darker the better.  Birds scattered after the first light in the morning sky will invariably fly toward the light in the east; birds flushed at dusk make their scared way west.  When it is dark the birds have nothing to orient them.  The result is pandemonium and flights in every direction.  A rolled-up newspaper to whack trees makes a great deal of noise and is handy accompaniment to your whoops and hollers.

You need to be in the woods before first light when approaching spots know to be favored roosts.  Similarly, if you heard or see birds fly up to roost at day's end, wait until full darkness before advancing.  You will have to spend more time in the woods, but rest assured the results will be worth the added effort.