Wild Turkey (Eastern 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 broadly rounded tip and a rectangular to slightly tapered outline
- Size
- Approximately 5 to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide, consistent with a prominent breast or body contour feather of a large adult wild turkey
- Rarity
- Common (abundant, widely distributed, and regularly encountered throughout its range)
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Description
The Wild Turkey is North America's largest upland game bird, known for its iconic fan-shaped tail, bare blue-and-red head, and iridescent plumage. This body contour feather showcases the species' signature metallic bronze, copper, and green iridescence, which plays a major role in display rituals during the spring breeding season.
Colour & Pattern
Dark brownish-black base with a striking iridescent green and bronze subterminal band, ending in a distinct light brown or buff terminal margin; structural and melanin-based colors create a metallic sheen under direct light
Barb Structure
Pennaceous upper vane with tightly interlocked barbules and barbicels, transitioning into a fluffy plumulaceous downy base with a distinct afterfeather (aftershaft)
Texture & Surface
Smooth, firm, and stiff pennaceous tip with a glossy metallic sheen, contrasting with the soft, loose, and fluffy downy base near the calamus
Key Features
Broadly rounded tip, stiff pennaceous structure with a dense metallic green/bronze subterminal band, and a fluffy plumulaceous base with a prominent aftershaft
Habitat
Mixed hardwood and pine forests with scattered openings, woodlots, agricultural fields, and mature woodlands with access to water
Geographic Range
Widespread across North America, ranging from the wooded regions of Canada down through the United States to central Mexico; introduced successfully in various other parts of the world
Ecological Role
Acts as an important seed disperser, predator of insects and small reptiles, and a significant prey species for large raptors and mammalian carnivores
Similar Species
Other large gallinaceous birds such as domestic turkeys or large grouse, though the distinct bronze-green iridescence and wide subterminal banding separate wild turkey contour feathers
Interesting Facts
Wild Turkeys can run at speeds up to 25 mph and fly in short bursts up to 55 mph. Despite their heavy build, they routinely roost high in mature trees at night to avoid predators
Condition Notes
Good condition; the barbs are fully intact with minimal wear, showing a fresh molted appearance with bright iridescence and no major structural damage or fault bars