Wild Turkey
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Meleagris, Species: M. gallopavo
Family: Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies); Subfamily Meleagridinae (Turkeys)
- Shape
- Broad and somewhat symmetrical with rounded tips. The vanes are relatively wide compared to the length, characteristic of the inner wing feathers of a heavy-bodied terrestrial bird.
- Size
- Estimated at 8 to 10 inches in length and 2 to 3 inches in width. This is consistent with the secondary feathers of an adult Wild Turkey, which are significantly shorter than the primary flight feathers.
- Rarity
- Common. Once nearly extirpated, successful conservation efforts have made them abundant across most of their historical range.
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Description
These are the secondary wing feathers of the Wild Turkey. The bird itself is a large, heavy-bodied ground dweller with a naked head and dark iridescent body plumage. Tom (male) turkeys are famous for their fanned tails and bearded chests, while hens (females) are smaller and more camouflaged.
Colour & Pattern
Distinctive barred pattern comprising broad, alternating bands of dark brownish-black and buff/creamy white. The marbling near the tips and the mottled appearance of the lighter bands are diagnostic for this species.
Barb Structure
Densely packed pennaceous barbs that are tightly interlocked for flight efficiency. The base of the feathers shows a small amount of plumulaceous (downy) structure near the calamus for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Relatively stiff and coarse compared to songbird feathers. The surface has a slight matte finish with a waxy, water-repellent quality characteristic of ground-dwelling gallinaceous birds.
Key Features
Bold, regular brown-and-white barring; broad, rounded shape; large size; and a very stiff, durable rachis.
Habitat
Open woodlands, mature hardwood forests with scattered openings, and occasionally agricultural fields or pastures where they forage for acorns and seeds.
Geographic Range
Fragmented but widespread across North America, from southern Canada throughout the United States into central Mexico. They are non-migratory permanent residents.
Ecological Role
They are important seed dispersers and prey for large predators like bobcats and coyotes. They also serve as an indicator of healthy, diverse forest ecosystems.
Similar Species
Great Horned Owl feathers have similar barring but are much softer with a 'velvety' fringe for silent flight. Barred Owl feathers are likewise softer and have different banding intervals.
Interesting Facts
Benjamin Franklin famously preferred the Wild Turkey over the Bald Eagle as a symbol for the United States, calling it a 'Bird of Courage.' They are also remarkably fast, able to run up to 25 mph and fly up to 55 mph over short distances.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is visible wear and fraying at the tips (apical edges), suggesting these were likely molted after a season of use or found after some exposure to the elements.