Birds of the World

Phasianidae : Pheasants, Grouse & Turkeys

Wild Turkey

Meleagris gallopavo

Florida, USA - December 2011

The Wild Turkey is an abundant game bird that is hunted extensively in tightly controlled spring and autumn seasons throughout its range in Canada and USA.

Florida, USA - December 2011

Nutritionally, they are opportunistic omnivores with seeds, nuts, fruit and insects all making an important contribution to their diet, except for the first 6 weeks of their live when the young poults feed exclusively on insects and consume around 3000-4000 insects per day!

Florida, USA - December 2011

They are a gregarious species and live in groups of 6-20 individuals with a well defined social structure maintained by regular aggressive displays and fights.

Florida, USA - December 2011

Turkeys have been introduced and become established in numerous areas outside of their native range, including New Zealand, Germany, Hawaii and several western mainland states of USA.

North Island, New Zealand - November 2005