Home Animals A-Z
Animals A-Z >  Wild Turkey
Wild Turkey

The Meleagris, or turkey, is a majestic bird with shimmering plumage and a striking fan-like tail. Known for their social nature and complex calls, turkeys play a vital role in their ecosystems, aerating the soil and providing food for predators.

1-10 years
Lifespan
45362.0 kg
Weight
Brown, Yellow, Red, Blue, Black, White, Green
Color
6 mph
Top Speed
Characteristics
Meleagris, commonly known as turkeys, are large ground-dwelling birds native to North America. They boast a fan-shaped tail, a distinctive wattle, and iridescent plumage. Turkeys are social creatures, often forming flocks and communicating through a range of vocalizations. They thrive in forests, fields, and grasslands.
Distribution Range of the Wild Turkey
Meleagris, commonly known as wild turkeys, are native to North America. They are found predominantly in the United States, with their range extending into parts of Canada and Mexico. Specifically, their geographical distribution includes regions such as the eastern United States, the Midwest, the western United States, and parts of southern Canada and northern Mexico.
Wild Turkey's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
Wild turkeys inhabit a variety of environments, but they are most commonly found in deciduous and mixed forests with interspersed open areas. They prefer habitats that provide cover for roosting and nesting, such as woodlands, as well as open fields for foraging. The climate in these areas ranges from temperate to subtropical, with varying levels of rainfall that support diverse vegetation.
Ecological Niche
Wild turkeys occupy a niche as omnivorous ground foragers. They consume a varied diet that includes seeds, nuts, fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. They play a role in seed dispersal and help control insect populations. Their presence in diverse habitats such as forests, grasslands, and marshes highlights their adaptability to different ecological conditions.