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Wild Turkey (Eastern Wild Turkey, Merriam's Wild Turkey)
Contour feather (body covert feather)

Wild Turkey (Eastern Wild Turkey, Merriam's Wild Turkey)

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Meleagris, Species: M. gallopavo

Family: Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, Turkeys, and Allies)

Shape
Symmetrical vane with a rounded tip and a broadly squared or tapering base; overall outline is oblong to spatula-shaped.
Size
Approximately 4 to 5 inches long, typical of a medium-sized breast or body contour feather for an adult wild turkey.
Rarity
Very Common
Learn more about Wild Turkey (Eastern Wild Turkey, Merriam's Wild Turkey) in the encyclopedia →

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Description

The Wild Turkey is a large, ground-dwelling bird known for its distinctive bald head, fan-shaped tail, and elaborate courtship displays. This contour feather showcases the rich, dark tones and characteristic iridescent bronze-green sheen typical of the species' body plumage, designed for both camouflage and display.

Colour & Pattern

Dark brown to nearly black base with a subtle iridescent bronze and green sheen, featuring a distinct narrow pale brownish-buff or whitish terminal fringe or band at the tip.

Barb Structure

Pennaceous at the distal end with tightly interlocked barbs and barbicels, transitioning to a softer, plumulaceous (downy) structure near the base with a small afterfeather.

Texture & Surface

Smooth and firm at the distal vane with a matte to slightly glossy finish; softer and downy at the proximal base where the barbs are unlinked.

Key Features

Dark brown body feather with metallic bronze iridescence and a pale terminal fringe or band, featuring a stout pale rachis and a downy base with an afterfeather.

Habitat

Mixed hardwood and pine forests with scattered openings, clearings, and agricultural fields, often near water sources.

Geographic Range

Widely distributed across North America, spanning from the forested regions of southern Canada down through the United States and into central Mexico.

Ecological Role

Acts as an important seed disperser and insect predator, while also serving as prey for various large mammalian and avian predators.

Similar Species

Domestic turkey feathers or certain large grouse and pheasant feathers, which can be distinguished by specific barring patterns, coloration, and size variations.

Interesting Facts

Wild turkeys can fly in short bursts up to 55 mph, though they spend most of their time on the ground. They possess exceptional eyesight and hearing.

Condition Notes

Good condition with minor wear along the edges, intact rachis, and no significant structural damage or parasitic infestations.