Turkeys, large birds native to North America, belong to the genus Meleagris and are classified within the family Phasianidae, which also includes pheasants and grouse. The wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is the ancestor to all domestic turkeys. These birds have played a significant role as a food source and in the traditions of various North American indigenous cultures.
Wild Turkey Subspecies
The wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is divided into six recognized subspecies, with five residing across North America. The Eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) is the most widespread, ranging across the entire eastern half of the United States and into parts of Canada. Males weigh between 11 and 24 pounds, showcasing iridescent plumage with shades of copper, bronze, red, green, and gold.
The Osceola wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo osceola), also known as the Florida wild turkey, is found exclusively in peninsular Florida. This subspecies is characterized by darker body feathers and less pronounced white barring on its wings compared to the Eastern. In the central plains, stretching through Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas, lives the Rio Grande wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo intermedia). These birds have noticeably long legs and paler body coloration, often with a copper sheen, and their tail and rump feathers are tipped with buff or tan.
The Merriam’s wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) inhabits the mountainous regions of the western United States. They are distinguished by their prominent white or light-colored tail and rump feathers. Finally, the Gould’s wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo mexicana) is primarily found in the central and northern mountains of Mexico, with limited populations extending into Arizona and New Mexico. This subspecies is the largest of the North American wild turkeys, possessing longer legs, larger feet, and distinct blue-green, copper, and greenish-gold reflections in its plumage, along with white-tipped tail feathers.
Domestic Turkey Breeds
Domestic turkeys originated from a wild turkey subspecies found in southern Mexico, first domesticated by indigenous peoples around 800 BC. Through centuries of selective breeding, various domestic turkey breeds have been developed, each with distinct characteristics tailored for specific purposes, primarily meat production. The Broad Breasted White is the most common commercial turkey breed today, known for its rapid growth and substantial meat yield, particularly in the breast. Their white plumage ensures a cleaner appearance after processing, though their immense size often prevents natural reproduction, necessitating artificial insemination.
The Bronze turkey, named for its iridescent bronze plumage, was historically the most popular domestic breed and closely resembles its wild ancestors in coloration. This breed includes commercial Broad Breasted Bronze types and the rarer Standard Bronze heritage variety. Another heritage breed, the Narragansett, originated in Rhode Island and is recognized for its hardiness, self-sufficiency, and excellent maternal instincts. Its plumage features an intricate pattern of black, gray, tan, and white feathers.
The Bourbon Red, developed in Kentucky, is known for its striking brownish to dark red plumage, contrasted by white flight and tail feathers. This breed is valued for its rich flavor and active foraging behavior. The Royal Palm is a smaller, more ornamental breed, primarily raised for exhibition rather than meat. These turkeys display a distinctive white plumage with sharply contrasting metallic black edging on their feathers, and they are noted for being active foragers and capable flyers.
Key Distinctions Between Wild and Domestic Turkeys
Wild and domestic turkeys differ in physical characteristics and behavior, largely due to selective breeding. Wild turkeys possess streamlined bodies, robust leg muscles, and strong wings that enable them to fly at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour over short distances and run up to 25 miles per hour. Their plumage is dark and iridescent, providing camouflage in their natural habitats.
Conversely, domestic turkeys, particularly commercial breeds like the Broad Breasted White, have been bred to maximize meat production, resulting in much heavier bodies and disproportionately large breasts. This substantial size often renders them flightless and causes health issues like heart problems and joint damage. While wild turkeys are adept foragers with keen senses and breed naturally, many domestic breeds rely on artificial insemination due to their physical alterations.
Domesticated turkeys display a more docile temperament, a trait cultivated through selective breeding.