Wild Turkey (Eastern Wild Turkey)

The Wild Turkey is a large, ground-dwelling bird known for its iridescent bronze plumage, fan-like tail, and bare, colorful head of the adult male. They are powerful runners and capable, though reluctant, flyers that roost in tall trees at night. Their complex social structures and booming vocalizations make them a hallmark of North American woodlands.

Charcoal grey to dark brown background with distinct alternating black and white or greyish-white barring across the vanes, ending in a dark tip

Pennaceous vane with tightly interlocked barbs and barbicels providing high structural integrity; no afterfeather present on wing primaries

Stiff, firm, and smooth with a matte finish and high structural rigidity designed to withstand aerodynamic pressure

Large size, robust white-grey rachis, and distinct black-and-grey or brownish-grey barring characteristic of gallinaceous primary wing feathers

Mixed hardwood and pine forests with scattered openings, woodlots, agricultural fields, and brushy areas

Widespread throughout North America, ranging from southern Canada down through the United States into parts of Mexico

Acts as an important seed disperser and omnivorous consumer of insects, nuts, and vegetation, while also serving as prey for large mammalian and avian predators

Other large game birds such as grouse or large raptors, though turkey wing primaries are readily distinguished by their distinct barred pattern and stout, pale rachis

Wild Turkeys can run at speeds up to 25 mph and fly in short bursts at speeds up to 55 mph. Despite nearly facing extinction in the early 20th century due to overhunting and habitat loss, successful conservation and relocation programs have restored them to millions across North America.

Good condition with intact barbs and a clean, undamaged rachis, showing minimal signs of wear or fading