Wild Turkey
Image: trejdil (cc-by-nc)
NameWild Turkey
Common NameWild Turkey
Scientific NameMeleagris gallopavo
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)120
Length (cm)100
Weight (g)7000
Plumage DetailsWild Turkeys have iridescent bronze-green to copper-red body plumage, with barred flight feathers. Males (toms) have a bare, reddish-blue head and neck, a 'beard' of coarse bristles on the chest, and prominent spurs on their legs. Females (hens) are generally duller with less iridescence and smaller heads.
Vocalization / CallMales are famous for their loud 'gobble,' especially during breeding season, used to attract mates. Both sexes produce a variety of calls including clucks, purrs, yelps, and putts for communication within the flock.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, agricultural land, suburban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to North America, Wild Turkeys are found across much 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 head and neck (reddish-blue in males), fan-shaped tail, gobbling call (males), beard (males)
Description
The Wild Turkey is a large, ground-dwelling bird native to North America, known for its iridescent plumage and distinctive gobbling call. They are social birds, often seen foraging in flocks in woodlands and open areas, adapting well to various habitats.
