Wild Turkey

A striking primary wing feather from a Wild Turkey, North America's largest game bird. The bird itself is massive with iridescent bronze-green plumage, a naked head with red/blue wattles, and a fan-shaped tail used in displays.

Alternating bold white (creamy-white) and dark brownish-black bars. The dark bands are wider than the light bands. The dorsal surface is more vibrant than the slightly duller ventral surface.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs designed for powerful lift; somewhat stiff and coarse to the touch. The trailing edge shows some splitting into plumulaceous sections near the base.

Matte and slightly oily to the touch for water resistance. The vane feels stiff and rigid, capable of withstanding the force of a heavy bird taking off.

Characteristic 'zebra-stripe' bold white and black barring; stiff, asymmetrical primary shape; large size exceeding most other North American forest birds.

Open woodlands, mixed forests with clearings, pastures, and increasingly suburban areas with sufficient tree cover for roosting.

Native to North America, spanning from southern Canada across most of the continental United States into central Mexico. Generally non-migratory.

Generalist omnivore that disperses seeds and keeps insect populations in check. Serves as a primary prey source for large raptors and mammalian carnivores.

Barred Owl feathers (softer, 'furry' texture, different brown shades); Great Horned Owl (rounded tips, soft fringe); Domestic Turkey (often pure white or different color variations).

The Wild Turkey was Benjamin Franklin's preferred choice for the national bird of the US. They are capable of flying up to 55 mph in short bursts to escape predators or reach roosts.

Fair to Good. There is noticeable wear and 'zipper' splitting along the trailing edge (barbs unhooked). Some chipping at the tip suggests it was a naturally molted feather toward the end of its cycle.