Wild Turkey (Eastern Wild Turkey)

The Wild Turkey is a large, striking gallinaceous bird known for its iridescent plumage, fan-shaped tail, and bare, colorful head. This particular body feather showcases the intricate earth-toned patterning typical of gamebird contour feathers, providing both camouflage and thermal insulation.

Warm tawny-brown base with fine dark vermiculations, featuring a bold dark subterminal band and a pale buff or whitish tip.

Pennaceous upper vane with tightly interlocked barbicels, transitioning smoothly into a plumulaceous (fluffy, downy) base.

Smooth and firm along the upper pennaceous portion, transitioning to a soft, fluffy texture at the base where the downy barbs are unhooked.

Warm brown coloration with fine vermiculations, a prominent dark subterminal band, a pale terminal edge, and a fluffy downy base.

Mature deciduous and mixed conifer-hardwood forests with scattered openings, clearings, and agricultural fields.

Widely distributed throughout North America, spanning from the forested regions of the United States and southern Canada down to Mexico.

Acts as an omnivorous seed disperser, predator of insects and small reptiles, and an important prey species for large mammalian and avian predators.

Other large gamebirds such as grouse or pheasants, though their feathers generally differ in scale, specific barbuled patterns, and exact coloration.

Wild Turkeys can run at speeds up to 25 mph and fly in short bursts at speeds up to 55 mph. Despite their heavy build, they routinely roost in high tree branches at night.

Good condition with intact barbs, clean edges, and no visible signs of fading, structural damage, or parasitic infestation.