Meleagris gallopavo
The Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is North America's largest native game bird, a majestic and iconic species renowned for its iridescent plumage and elaborate courtship displays. Males typically measure 99-122 cm (39-48 in) in length and weigh 5-11 kg (11-24 lbs), exhibiting striking bronze, copper, green, and red iridescence, while females are smaller at 76-94 cm (30-37 in) and 2.5-5.5 kg (5.5-12 lbs) with duller, browner coloration. Distinctive field marks include their large size, bare...
Found primarily in mature deciduous and mixed forests interspersed with open clearings, pastures, or agricultural fields for foraging. Inhabits a range of elevations from sea level to mountainous terrains.
Omnivorous, feeding predominantly on seeds, nuts (especially acorns), fruits, and a variety of insects, occasionally consuming small amphibians or reptiles. Forages mainly by scratching and pecking on the ground.
Wild Turkeys are diurnal, spending their days foraging on the ground before congregating to roost in tall trees at night, often in large groups for safety. Their foraging strategy involves scratching through leaf litter with strong feet to uncover nuts, seeds, and insects, moving methodically acr...
The Wild Turkey is native to North America, with its historic and current range extending from southern Canada, across the vast majority of the contiguous United States, and south into central Mexico. Its breeding distribution encompasses southeastern Canada (specifically parts of Ontario and Que...
Least Concern
- Wild Turkeys can run up to 25 mph (40 km/h) and fly short distances at speeds reaching 55 mph (88 km/h). - Benjamin Franklin famously admired the Wild Turkey's courage and vigilance, suggesting it would be a more appropriate national bird than the Bald Eagle. - Male turkeys possess a "beard," a...