Wild Turkey
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Meleagris, Species: M. gallopavo · Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Turkeys) · Contour - Body / Tail Covert
Species
Meleagris gallopavo
Feather Type
Contour - Body / Tail Covert
Family
Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Turkeys)
Shape
Symmetrical with a broad, rounded, or squared-off tip. The general outline is spatulate to fan-like with a wide vane.
Size
Estimated 4-6 inches in length. This is consistent with a larger contour feather or an upper tail covert from a mature specimen.
Rarity
Very Common. Populations are robust following successful conservation reintroduction programs in the 20th century.
Color & Pattern
Rich chestnut or rufous base with bold black transverse banding (barring). Features a distinct subterminal black band and a narrow lighter buff or cinnamon fringe at the very tip. Iridescent bronze highlights are visible on the distal pennaceous section.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous at the distal (upper) end with tightly interlocked barbs for weatherproofing; plumulaceous (downy) at the proximal half for insulation. High density of barbicels in the patterned section.
Texture & Surface
The upper part is stiff, smooth, and slightly glossy with structural iridescence; the lower half is extremely soft, fluffy, and matte.
Description
A magnificent, large ground-dwelling bird. Adult males (toms) have iridescent bronze-green plumage, a naked head with red/blue wattles, and a 'beard' of modified feathers. This feather displays the classic 'turkey' barring that provides camouflage against the forest floor.
Key Features
Bold black and rufous/copper barring, broad rounded tip with subterminal black band, and an extensive downy base.
Habitat
Open woodlands, mature forests with clearings, oak-hickory stands, and increasingly in agricultural fields and suburban parks.
Geographic Range
Native to North America. Found year-round throughout the United States, southern Canada, and parts of northern Mexico.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The tip is slightly worn (normal for a ground bird), but the barbs are mostly intact without significant fault bars or parasitic damage.
Interesting Facts
Benjamin Franklin famously preferred the Wild Turkey over the Bald Eagle as a national symbol, calling it a 'Bird of Courage.' They are also surprisingly fast, reaching speeds of 25 mph on foot and 55 mph in flight.
Ecological Role
Omnivorous foragers that act as seed dispersers and insect controllers. They are a primary prey species for large predators like bobcats and coyotes, and their eggs are hunted by raccoons and snakes.
Similar Species
Ruffed Grouse (much smaller, different barring), Female Ring-necked Pheasant (more mottled, less crisp barring), or various owls (which have a soft, 'velvety' surface and different patterns).