Wild Turkey

A medium-sized body feather from a Wild Turkey. Wild Turkeys are massive, ground-dwelling birds with dark, iridescent plumage. While the large flight and tail feathers are iconic, these smaller body feathers provide the critical insulation and water-resistant layering that protects the bird from the elements.

Dull brownish-gray base with darker charcoal/blackish terminal banding; lack of iridescence suggests it may be from the underparts or a female (hen) / juvenile.

Mixed: Pennaceous at the distal tip for protection, transitioning to highly plumulaceous (downy) at the proximal end for insulation; barbs are relatively coarse.

Distal tip is semi-stiff and matte; the basal portion is extremely soft, fluffy, and silky for heat retention.

High ratio of downy base to pennaceous tip, grayish-brown coloration with dark sub-terminal bands, and relatively large size for a body contour feather.

Open hardwood and mixed conifer-hardwood forests with scattered openings like pastures, fields, or orchards.

Native to North America, ranging from southern Canada through the United States to central Mexico; non-migratory resident.

Omnivorous foragers that control insect populations and disperse seeds; they serve as a primary prey species for large predators like bobcats and coyotes.

Canada Goose (lighter gray with less distinct banding), Great Horned Owl (much softer, 'velvety' texture), or Female Ring-necked Pheasant (smaller and more intricately patterned).

Wild Turkeys have between 5,000 and 6,000 feathers. They were nearly hunted to extinction in the early 20th century but are now one of North America's greatest conservation success stories.

Fair to Good; shows significant separation of the barbs (fraying) at the tip, likely from wear or being discarded during molt.