Wild Turkey

The Wild Turkey is a large, ground-dwelling bird known for its fan-shaped tail, bare blue-and-red head, and iridescent body plumage. Males, or gobblers, boast magnificent metallic bronze feathers that shimmer in sunlight and are used in elaborate courtship displays.

Intricate bronzy-green and copper iridescence on the central vane, ending in a prominent velvety black subterminal band and a lighter buff or brown tip

Pennaceous upper portion with tightly interlocked barbicels, grading into a plumulaceous base with a distinct afterfeather (aftershaft)

Smooth and glossy pennaceous tip with metallic iridescence, transitioning to a soft, fluffy base

Metallic bronze-green iridescence, broad rounded contour shape, and a distinct dark velvety subterminal band bordered by a lighter tip

Deciduous and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests with scattered clearings, pastures, and agricultural fields

Widespread across North America, ranging from wooded areas of southern Canada through the United States down to central Mexico

Acts as an important seed disperser, predator of insects and small reptiles, and a food source for large mammalian and avian predators

Ring-necked Pheasant or Greater Prairie-Chicken feathers, though distinguished by the larger size, unique bronze iridescence, and specific terminal banding pattern of wild turkeys

Wild turkeys can fly in short bursts up to 55 mph and can swim by tucking their wings and kicking. Despite nearly facing extinction in the early 20th century, successful conservation and relocation programs have restored populations across North America.

Good condition, showing intact barbs and minimal wear along the edges