The long-standing belief that turkeys drown when it rains, often attributed to them staring skyward, is a common misconception. This idea stems from observations of turkeys tilting their heads during rainfall. However, the respiratory system of turkeys, like other birds, is designed to protect their airways, preventing drowning from rain.
Turkeys and Rain Dispelling a Myth
Turkeys possess a functional respiratory system that includes a glottis, a protective opening to the trachea that closes reflexively to prevent water from entering the lungs. Therefore, simply looking up during rainfall would not cause them to drown. The origin of this persistent myth might be linked to the behavior of some domestic turkeys. These birds, sometimes bred for rapid weight gain, may exhibit unusual behaviors or neurological disorders causing them to stare upwards for extended periods, which could have been misinterpreted as drowning during storms.
How Turkeys Stay Dry
Turkeys have several natural adaptations and behaviors that allow them to manage wet conditions effectively. Their feathers are inherently water-resistant, and wild turkey feathers are particularly sturdy due to their natural oils. Turkeys engage in preening, a behavior where they use their beaks to spread an oily, waxy secretion from their uropygial gland, located at the base of their tail, over their feathers. This preen oil creates a waterproof barrier, helping the feathers shed water and maintaining their flexibility and insulating properties.
Turkeys also employ behavioral strategies to avoid excessive wetness. During heavy rain, they often seek shelter under dense foliage or in other protected areas. After rainfall, turkeys frequently move to open spaces, such as fields, where air movement facilitates rapid drying of their feathers. They may also shake excess water from their bodies.
Rain’s Real Risks for Turkeys
While adult turkeys are well-equipped to handle rain, prolonged or severe wet weather can pose indirect risks, particularly for young turkeys, known as poults. Poults, especially those covered only in down feathers, are vulnerable to hypothermia in cold, wet conditions because they cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively as adults. This chilling effect can lead to mortality.
Heavy rain can also increase their vulnerability to predators by reducing visibility and masking the sounds of approaching threats. Food sources might also become less accessible or washed away. These environmental stresses primarily impact the most fragile members of the turkey population, highlighting that the dangers of rain are related to temperature regulation and environmental challenges.