Wild Turkey

This is a classic barred tail feather from a Wild Turkey, a large ground-dwelling bird characterized by its iridescent body plumage, fan-like tail, and powerful legs. The bold banding is diagnostic for the species.

Alternating heavy bars of dark chocolate brown to black and lighter buff-tan or grayish-white. Features a distinctive wide terminal dark band followed by a lighter buff tip.

Largely pennaceous with a stiff, interlocking structure; plumulaceous (downy) at the very base for insulation.

Stiff and slightly coarse texture with a matte finish; the leading and trailing edges are relatively uniform in rigidity.

Bold, wide dark and light barring; wide dark subterminal band; large size; symmetrical shape typical of Galliformes tail feathers.

Prefer open woodlands, hardwood forests with scattered openings, and occasionally agricultural fields or suburban edges.

Resident across much of North America, from southern Canada throughout the United States to central Mexico.

Omnivorous ground forager; plays a role as both prey for large predators and a seed disperser for various forest plants.

Barred Owl (much softer, fringed edges), Ruffed Grouse (much smaller), and various Hawk species (usually more tapered and lack the blunt tip).

The Wild Turkey was Benjamin Franklin's preferred choice for the national bird over the Bald Eagle, citing its courage and native North American roots.

Fair to Good condition; some separation of barbs (splitting) visible along the right edge, likely due to mechanical wear or handling.