Wild Turkey (also known as Eastern Wild Turkey, Merriam's Wild Turkey)

A large, stately upland game bird known for its iridescent plumage, fan-shaped tail, and bare head of the male. Turkeys are famous for their remarkable adaptability, booming gobble calls, and impressive display postures during the spring breeding season.

Muted grayish-brown overall with fine dark vermiculations and a distinct dark terminal band tipped with a lighter buff or grayish margin

Mix of pennaceous structure near the base and loosely interlocked, plumulaceous-like wispy barbs toward the tip, lacking a prominent afterfeather, generally intact barbs with some natural fraying at the edges

Soft yet resilient texture, matte finish, slightly velvety appearance due to the fine barbules, lacking any oily sheen

Broad, rounded contour shape with fine dark vermiculations, a sturdy central rachis, and a distinctive dark subterminal band with a lighter tip

Deciduous and mixed conifer-hardwood forests with scattered openings, clearings, and agricultural fields

Native to forested areas across North America, ranging from the southern United States and Mexico up into parts of southern Canada

Serves as both a significant predator of insects and seeds and a vital prey species for large mammalian and avian carnivores

Domestic turkey breeds and certain large grouse or pheasant species, though wild turkey contour feathers are distinct in their specific vermiculation patterns and earthy tones

Despite their heavy bodies, Wild Turkeys can fly in short bursts at speeds up to 55 mph and can swim by tucking their wings and kicking

Good condition with minor wear along the distal barbs, completely intact central rachis, and no visible parasitic damage