
Wild Turkey
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Meleagris, Species: M. gallopavo
Family: Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, Turkeys, and Allies)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane with a rounded tip
- Size
- Approximately 7 to 9 inches long, consistent with a large body or covert feather of a Wild Turkey
- Rarity
- Very Common
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Description
The Wild Turkey is a large, iconic North American game bird known for its iridescent plumage, fan-shaped tail, and bare, colorful head. This body feather exhibits the classic vermiculated brown and black barring characteristic of turkey plumage.
Colour & Pattern
Rich earth tones featuring alternating brown, black, and buff horizontal bars with a pale whitish-grey tip
Barb Structure
Pennaceous structure near the tip grading into slightly looser plumulaceous barbs at the base; barbs are intact with standard hooklets
Texture & Surface
Firm and somewhat stiff vane structure with a matte finish, typical of terrestrial gallinaceous body feathers
Key Features
Distinctive alternating dark brown and buff transverse bars across a broad, rounded feather vane with a lighter terminal band
Habitat
Open hardwood and mixed conifer-hardwood forests with scattered clearings, agricultural fields, and swamps
Geographic Range
Native to North America, widely distributed across the United States, Mexico, and parts of southern Canada
Ecological Role
Serves as an important seed disperser, insect consumer, and prey species for large mammalian and avian predators
Similar Species
Other large gallinaceous birds such as domestic turkeys or certain grouse species, distinguished by specific bar width and coloration
Interesting Facts
Wild Turkeys can fly in short bursts up to 55 mph and can also swim by tucking their wings and kicking
Condition Notes
Good condition with minor wear along the edges, fully intact rachis and vane