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Bird

Meleagris Gallopavo

Fact sheets
Did you know?
I’m not the turkey you eat at Christmas!
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Did you know?
My scientific name leads to confusion, “Meleagris” means Guineafowl and “gallopavo” means peafowl. But I’m not at all a mix of the two! Nor am I the turkey that you feast on at Christmas or Thanksgiving. I am a wild bird, not a farm animal.
Physical abilities
Wild Turkeys can fly … and run!
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Physical abilities
I am well equipped to walk and run and I can reach speeds of 19km/h when I’m in a hurry. Contrary to popular belief, I can fly very well, but generally at low altitudes and over short distances. In any case I don’t fly much, preferring my feet to my wings. To best protect myself I spend my nights perched in the trees.
Distribution
A complete disappearance because of the excessive hunting
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Distribution
In the 17th century, we numbered in the millions on the continent. Excessive hunting and deforestation had led to my complete disappearance in Canada. I am starting to return as American Wild Turkeys have spread northward across the border.
Reproduction
Quite a charming prince!
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Reproduction
It’s the male turkey that gobbles. He emits a powerful cry to attract females. It’s a cry that can be heard up to 1.5km away. The male also puts on a display, with tail fanned, and wings spread and dragging along the ground. The extra growth of skin that protrudes from the top of my beak will get longer and can reach down to my neck while i am courting females.
turkey portrait
What to do if you find a bird in distress?

Throughout the year, it is possible to cross paths with a bird in distress: broken or damaged wing, collision with a vehicle or electrical wires, birds are often unlucky and face many dangers. If you find a bird in distress, contact the Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs at 1-877-346-6763

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