Turkey Facts

Turkey is a large bird, which belongs to genus Meleagris. Many species are common; one of them is native to North America, while another is native to Yucatan Peninsula. They are the relative of grouse family and usually classified among Galli forms. Here are some facts about turkey.

1. Habitat

Turkeys are domesticated long time ago. However, in natural environment they are found in hard wood forests, which also have grassy areas.

2. Flying ability

Turkeys are large birds; they can fly only for short distances. Their speed is around 55 miles per hour. Domesticated verities cannot fly, as their weight is almost double as compared to the weight of wild turkeys.

3. Different skin growths

Turkeys have brightly colored growth on head and upper neck, which is called as carancle. Snood is another flap of skin, which hangs over the turkey’s beak. A flap of skin which hangs under the chin is called as wattle.

4. Throat skin

Turkeys have bare skin on throat and head. This skin can change color when the bird is distressed or excited for some reason. It changes color from gray to shades of red, white and even blue.

5. Digestion

A part of turkey’s stomach is called as gizzard, which contains stones. These stones help in digestion of food.