Wild Turkey (Eastern Wild Turkey, Merriam's Wild Turkey)

The Wild Turkey is a large, ground-dwelling bird native to North America, easily recognized by its bare, blue-and-red head, fan-like tail, and dark, iridescent plumage. Body feathers exhibit intricate patterns of bronze, copper, brown, and black, designed for camouflage in forest undergrowth.

Earthy brown and grayish tones with fine vermiculation, a distinct subterminal dark brown or black band, and a contrasting pale buff or whitish terminal fringe.

Strongly pennaceous upper visible vane with tightly interlocked barbs and barbicels, smooth continuous surface, and intact structure.

Smooth, firm, and matte texture with rigid pennaceous vanes that offer good resistance to wear and moisture.

Distinctive subterminal dark band followed by a pale buff or whitish tip, typical of body and breast feathers of the Wild Turkey.

Mixed hardwood and pine forests with scattered clearings, agricultural fields, woodlots, and swampy bottomlands.

Widespread across North America, introduced in parts of Hawaii and various regions globally.

Serves as both predator (consuming insects, reptiles, and seeds) and prey for apex predators. Acts as an important seed disperser in forest ecosystems.

Domestic turkey varieties, grouse, and large pheasants, though the specific pattern of wild turkey body feathers is usually distinct in tone and vermiculation.

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 in high trees at night.

Good condition with minor wear at the extreme distal tip, intact barbs, and no visible parasitic damage or heavy fading.