WILD TURKEYS Meaning and
Definition
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Wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) are large birds native to North America. They are a species in the family Phasianidae and are closely related to domestic turkeys. Wild turkeys are known for their impressive size, unique appearance, and certain behavioral characteristics.
These birds typically measure between 3-4 feet in length and have a wingspan that ranges from 4 to 5 feet. They have long, powerful legs that aid them in walking and running, and their bodies are covered in broad, dark feathers. Wild turkeys display a distinct male and female appearance, with males (known as toms) having larger bodies and more vibrant plumage than the females (known as hens).
Wild turkeys are primarily ground-dwelling birds, inhabiting a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, and grasslands. They are omnivorous creatures, feeding on a diverse diet that consists of plant matter, insects, seeds, and small animals.
Known for their stunning display of courtship, male turkeys engage in elaborate mating rituals during the breeding season, featuring fanned tail feathers, puffed-up chests, and vocalizations such as gobbling. Females construct ground nests and lay a clutch of eggs, usually around 10-12, which they incubate for approximately one month.
Despite being once endangered, wild turkeys have made a remarkable resurgence in population over the years thanks to successful conservation efforts. Today, they continue to be an iconic and revered species in the North American wildlife, attracting birdwatchers and hunters alike.
Common Misspellings for WILD TURKEYS
- qild turkeys
- aild turkeys
- sild turkeys
- eild turkeys
- 3ild turkeys
- 2ild turkeys
- wuld turkeys
- wjld turkeys
- wkld turkeys
- wold turkeys
- w9ld turkeys
- w8ld turkeys
- wikd turkeys
- wipd turkeys
- wiod turkeys
- wils turkeys
- wilx turkeys
- wilc turkeys
- wilf turkeys
- wilr turkeys
Etymology of WILD TURKEYS
The word "wild turkeys" has a simple etymology. "Wild" means living in a natural state, untamed, or not domesticated. "Turkeys" refers to the large, North American birds of the genus Meleagris.
The term "turkey" has an interesting history. When the bird was first brought to Europe in the 16th century, it was mistakenly believed to be related to a type of African guinea fowl that was imported through Turkey. Consequently, the English named the bird "turkey-cock" or "turkey-hen", associating it with Turkey, even though it is native to the Americas. Eventually, the shortened name "turkey" became the common term for the bird.
The "wild" component in "wild turkeys" is added to distinguish these birds from domesticated turkeys that are bred for consumption.
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