
Wild Turkey (Eastern 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 broadly rounded tip and a stable, rectangular-oval outline.
- Size
- Approximately 2.5 inches in length, as indicated by the adjacent ruler, which aligns with standard medium-sized body coverts from a wild turkey.
- Rarity
- Very Common
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Description
A rich copper-brown body contour feather from a Wild Turkey, showcasing the signature iridescence and earthy tones of North America's largest upland game bird.
Colour & Pattern
Warm, coppery-bronze and chestnut-brown tones with subtle metallic iridescence typical of Wild Turkey body feathers. A thin, dark terminal band is faintly visible at the edge.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous at the upper distal tip with interlocked barbs, transitioning to a slightly more open or slightly frayed structure near the base; no prominent afterfeather is visible in this specific view.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and glossy at the tip with a semi-rigid vane structure that feels relatively stiff yet flexible.
Key Features
Uniform coppery-brown color with subtle metallic bronze sheen, rounded tip, and smooth contour feather structure.
Habitat
Open hardwood and mixed conifer-hardwood forests with scattered clearings, agricultural fields, and wooded swamps.
Geographic Range
Widespread across North America, from the forested regions of the United States and parts of southern Canada down into Mexico.
Ecological Role
Acts as an omnivorous forager helping control insect populations and seed dispersal while serving as a prey species for large raptors and mammals.
Similar Species
Domestic turkey feathers or certain large gamebird feathers, which can be distinguished by differences in coloration, barring, and gloss.
Interesting Facts
Wild Turkeys can fly in short bursts up to 55 mph and spend their nights roosting high up in the branches of trees to avoid predators.
Condition Notes
Good condition with minor wear and slight fraying along the edges of the lower barbs, but otherwise structurally intact.