The Eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) inhabits North American forests and woodlands. Known for its iridescent plumage, it has a fan-shaped tail and a distinctive wattle. Turkeys are social birds, forming flocks and engaging in elaborate courtship displays. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem as seed dispersers.

The Eastern Wild Turkey, scientifically known as Meleagris gallopavo silvestris, is native to the eastern United States. Its range extends from Maine to northern Florida and west to Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, and eastern Texas. This subspecies is also found in parts of southeastern Canada, including southern Ontario and Quebec.

The Eastern Wild Turkey inhabits a variety of environments, primarily deciduous and mixed forests interspersed with open clearings. These areas provide the necessary mix of cover and food resources. The climate in these regions varies from temperate in the north to subtropical in the south, with distinct seasonal changes influencing their behavior and habitat use.

Meleagris gallopavo silvestris occupies a niche as a ground-dwelling bird that forages for food such as nuts, seeds, insects, and small reptiles. They play a significant role in their ecosystem by aiding in seed dispersal and controlling insect populations. This subspecies is well adapted to its environment, exhibiting behaviors such as flocking and roosting in trees for safety from predators.