Fascinating Facts About Wild Turkeys: Can They Fly and More?

Wild turkeys are a common sight in many parts of the United States, but there’s more to these birds than meets the eye Here are seven fascinating facts about wild turkeys that you might not know:

1 Wild Turkeys Almost Went Extinct

In the early 1900s, wild turkeys were on the brink of extinction. However, thanks to conservation efforts, their population has rebounded to nearly 7 million birds today.

2. Wild Turkeys Can Fly Faster Than You Think

While they may not look like it, wild turkeys are capable of flying at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. They can also run up to 25 miles per hour, making them surprisingly fast birds.

3. People Eat a Lot of Turkey

Every year, Americans eat an average of 16 pounds of turkey per person. That’s a lot of turkey!

4. How Much Does a Wild Turkey Weigh?

Male wild turkeys can weigh up to 25 pounds, while females typically weigh between 7 and 10 pounds.

5. Wild Turkeys Hold Spiritual Meaning

In some Native American cultures, turkeys were worshipped and buried with their dead. They were also used in religious ceremonies.

6. Keep Your Ears Open for Wild Turkey Calls

Wild turkeys make a variety of sounds, including the classic gobble-gobble. Some of their calls can be heard from a mile away!

7. How to Attract a Wild Turkey

Wild turkeys are attracted to food sources such as acorns, berries, and cracked corn. You can also attract them by providing a large, ground-based bird bath.

Bonus Fact: Wild Turkeys See in Color

Wild turkeys have excellent daytime vision and can see in color. Their visual field is also wider than a human’s, allowing them to see almost 360 degrees around them.

Wild turkeys are fascinating creatures with a rich history and a variety of interesting behaviors. By learning more about these birds, we can appreciate them even more and work to ensure their continued survival.