Wild Turkey

A magnificent ground bird, the Wild Turkey is the largest game bird in North America. The feather is part of the iconic 'fan' seen during the male's strut. The bird itself is massive with iridescent bronze-green plumage and a bald, colorful head.

Rich rufous-brown to copper base color with tight, dark brown to black undulating horizontal bars (vermiculations). Features a prominent dark subterminal band near the tip.

Pennaceous (firm and interlocked) throughout the upper two-thirds, with a plumulaceous (downy) base for insulation. Barbules are well-developed for a cohesive surface.

Relatively stiff and matte, though with a slight oily sheen typical of ground-nesting birds; the surface is slightly rough to the touch compared to waterfowl feathers.

Distinctive dark horizontal barring on a copper/buff background and a wide, dark subterminal band near the rounded tip.

Mature forests with open clearings, hardwood stands (oaks, hickories), and occasionally agricultural fields or suburban edges.

Common throughout North America, ranging from southern Canada through most of the United States to central Mexico.

Omnivorous foragers that control insect populations and disperse seeds; they serve as a major prey source for large predators like bobcats and coyotes.

Ruffed Grouse (smaller, more variegated) or female Ring-necked Pheasant (more tapered, different barring style).

Benjamin Franklin famously preferred the Wild Turkey over the Bald Eagle as the national symbol, calling it a 'Bird of Courage.'

Good condition; the barbs are mostly intact though the edges show slight wear typical of a naturally shed (molted) feather.