Wild Turkey (Eastern Wild Turkey)

The Wild Turkey is a large, distinctive ground-dwelling bird known for its iridescent plumage, fan-shaped tail, and bare, colorful head of the adult male. Capable of powerful, albeit short, bursts of flight.

Solid slate-grey to dark charcoal grey coloration with a smooth matte finish, lacking the prominent barred patterns found on tail or covert feathers.

Pennaceous vane structure tightly interlocked near the tip, becoming somewhat frayed and separated along the edges. No prominent afterfeather typical of body contours.

Stiff, durable, and smooth texture with a matte appearance. Built for strength and aerodynamic efficiency during flight.

Uniform grey coloration, large robust size, stiff curved rachis, and broad vane typical of large gallinaceous flight feathers.

Mature deciduous and mixed forests with scattered openings, clearings, and agricultural fields.

Widely distributed throughout North America, introduced in various other parts of the world. Resident year-round across its natural range.

Acts as an omnivorous seed disperser, insect predator, and an important prey species for large mammalian and avian carnivores.

Other large gallinaceous birds such as domestic turkeys or large grouse, distinguished primarily by precise color patterning and exact sizing.

Despite their heavy bodies and terrestrial habits, Wild Turkeys can fly at speeds up to 55 mph for short distances and routinely roost high up in trees at night.

Fair condition, showing notable fraying, missing barbs along the edges, and signs of weathering or wear.