11/27/2024
YOUR THANKSGIVING TURKEY’S WILD COUSIN
The Wild Turkey may be the most recognizable bird in North America, most likely because of its strong association with Thanksgiving. Yet, many people know very little about this colorful bird. Did you know that: while nearly going extinct in the early 1900, conservation efforts have brought the wild turkey population back to 6.5 million in the United States and 150,000 in Illinois.
Wild turkeys live in wooded areas and wetlands, roost in trees overnight, and feed on acorns, grasses, berries, fruits, grains, nuts, and seeds. Male turkeys can weigh over 25 pounds and are often identified by the tuft of feathers on their chest called a “beard", with females weighing half that amount. Turkeys have a complex vocabulary of over 20 different vocalizations and express emotion through their “waddle” color which hangs from their beak. Wild turkeys are skilled fliers and can reach 60 mph in short bursts. Turkeys can live up to 10 years.
At Lake Alexander we have a healthy wild turkey population, and our seasonal campers have fun catching photos of them dropping by their bird feeders. We’re grateful to the “wild cousin” for being here. Happy Thanksgiving!