Wild Turkey
Image: lb-17 (cc-by-nc)
NameWild Turkey
Common NameWild Turkey
Scientific NameMeleagris gallopavo
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)135
Length (cm)106
Weight (g)7000
Plumage DetailsPlumage is iridescent bronze-green to copper, appearing dark brown or blackish from a distance. The head and neck are largely bare, with reddish-blue skin. Males possess a prominent fan-shaped tail with dark bands and a 'beard' of coarse feathers on their chest.
Vocalization / CallMales are famous for their loud, resonant 'gobble' call, primarily used during the breeding season to attract mates. Other vocalizations include clucks, purrs, yelps, and putts.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, agricultural land, shrubland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across most of the eastern and central United States, parts of the western United States, southern Canada, and parts of Mexico.
Identifying Featureslarge size, iridescent dark plumage, bare red and blue head/neck, fan-shaped tail, distinctive gobbling call (males), beard on male chest
Description
The Wild Turkey is a large, ground-dwelling bird native to North America, known for its distinctive gobbling call and elaborate courtship displays. They are typically found foraging for food on the forest floor in woodlands and open forests.
