Wild
Turkey
The Wild Turkey - Turkeys are
classified as order Galliformes, Family Meleagridae. They are native to north
and central America and were introduced into Europe in the 16th century by the
Spanish explorers. The male measures four feet in length including the tail and
the female three feet. It has a hooked bill, a naked bluish head and neck. A red
fold of flesh called a wattle hangs from the chin. The iridescent plumage is bronze
with green highlights and a squarish tail with chestnut or white tips. The wings
are short and rounded. They live in small flocks feeding on insects and plant
matter.
During the mating season each male gathers a harem. He then performs
for them by strutting and displaying his tail feathers. The female then builds
a well hidden nest on the ground and 8-18 buff coloured eggs are laid. The wild
turkey is still hunted.