Wild Turkey
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Meleagris, Species: Meleagris gallopavo · Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Turkeys) · Primary flight feather (remex), likely from the mid-wing section (e.g., P5-P7).
Species
Meleagris gallopavo
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (remex), likely from the mid-wing section (e.g., P5-P7).
Family
Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Turkeys)
Shape
Highly asymmetrical with a narrower, stiffer leading edge (outer vane) and a broader trailing edge (inner vane); the tip is rounded to slightly pointed, and the overall profile is elongated and slightly curved.
Size
Estimated at 10 to 12 inches (25-30 cm) in length. This is consistent with the primary feathers of an adult Wild Turkey, which typically range from 8 to 15 inches depending on the specific wing position.
Rarity
Very Common. Wild Turkeys have seen a massive population recovery and are abundant in suitable habitats across their range.
Color & Pattern
Striking iridescent dark brown to charcoal black base color with bold, alternating white to off-white horizontal bars. The pattern is consistent across both vanes but more compressed on the leading edge.
Barb Structure
Densely packed and pennaceous (interlocked) for flight stability, particularly along the distal half; the proximal base shows slight plumulaceous (downy) structure near the calamus.
Texture & Surface
The surface is stiff and somewhat oily/waterproof, with a slight matte finish on the white sections and a faint metallic gloss on the darker portions. The leading edge feels significantly more rigid than the trailing edge.
Description
The Wild Turkey is a large, ground-dwelling bird known for its massive size and fanned tail. Adults have iridescent copper-bronze plumage and a featherless head that changes color. This specific wing feather displays the iconic 'zebra-striping' that makes Turkey wing feathers instantly recognizable even from a distance.
Key Features
Bold black-and-white barring, large size (over 10 inches), and extreme asymmetry characteristic of Galliformes primaries.
Habitat
Open woodlands, hardwood forests with scattered openings, pastures, and agricultural fields. They prefer areas with tall trees for roosting at night.
Geographic Range
Common throughout North America, ranging from southern Canada through most of the United States into parts of Mexico. Most populations are non-migratory permanent residents.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The feather shows significant separating of the barbs ('zipped' parts have unhooked), likely due to contact with vegetation before or after molting. The calamus is intact, suggesting a natural molt.
Interesting Facts
Benjamin Franklin famously preferred the Wild Turkey over the Bald Eagle as a national symbol, calling it a 'Bird of Courage.' Turkeys can fly up to 50 mph in short bursts to escape predators or reach roosting branches.
Ecological Role
They are important seed dispersers and generalist foragers. As prey, they support large predators like coyotes and bobcats; as foragers, they help control insect populations.
Similar Species
Turkey Vulture primaries are similar in size but lack white barring. Peacock (Peafowl) wing feathers can have similar barring but usually show different base colors and textures.