Wild Turkey
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Meleagris, Species: Meleagris gallopavo · Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Turkeys) · Primary flight feather (Remiges)
Species
Meleagris gallopavo
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (Remiges)
Family
Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Turkeys)
Shape
Highly asymmetrical vane, elongated and tapered toward a rounded tip; stiff leading edge without distinct emargination or notching.
Size
Approximately 12 to 15 inches (30-38 cm) in length; consistent with typical wing primaries for an adult Wild Turkey.
Rarity
Very Common; widespread and abundant throughout most of its natural and introduced range.
Color & Pattern
Base color is a dark brownish-gray or charcoal; featuring distinct, transverse white to off-white barring/banding throughout the length of the vanes.
Barb Structure
Densely packed and tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs providing a rigid, aerodynamic surface; plumulaceous barbs concentrated at the base (calamus area).
Texture & Surface
Relatively stiff and coarse; matte finish on the dorsal surface with a slightly oily, water-repellent quality characteristic of ground-dwelling birds.
Description
Large, heavy-bodied ground bird with long legs and a wide, fan-shaped tail. Males (toms) are iridescent bronze with bald, colorful heads, while feathers like this primary provide the lift for their short, powerful bursts of flight.
Key Features
Bold white-on-dark-gray transverse bars on a large, asymmetrical primary feather; thick, sturdy tan rachis.
Habitat
Open woodlands, hardwood forests with scattered openings, pastures, and agricultural fields.
Geographic Range
Common throughout North America, from southern Canada through the United States to central Mexico; non-migratory resident.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows some separation of the barbs (zipper-like gaps) toward the leading edge and tip, typical of a molted specimen.
Interesting Facts
Benjamin Franklin famously preferred the Wild Turkey over the Bald Eagle as a national symbol, calling it a 'Bird of Courage'. They can run up to 25 mph and fly up to 55 mph.
Ecological Role
Omnivorous ground forager that helps control insect populations and disperses seeds; serves as a significant prey species for large predators.
Similar Species
Great Horned Owl (softer texture, fringe on leading edge), various large hawk species (usually have different banding or mottling patterns).