Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo)

	General Description: Wild Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) are large birds with a naked, blueish head. Head, neck, and wattle on male may be red. Male with "beard." Turkeys can fly, but they prefer to walk on the ground. Female smaller than male and more drably colored. Favored Habitat: Wild Turkeys prefer the eastern hardwood forest where they belong, but they have been widely introduced into the west in various habitats.
Phantom Ranch (Grand Canyon).	Where to Find: Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Overton Wildlife Management Area, and the upper end of Zion Canyon (Zion National Park) between the lodge and Weeping Rock. Comments: Widely introduced throughout the western US.
	Two Wild Turkeys getting ready to roost in a safe place for the night: atop a cabin at Phantom Ranch in the bottom of the Grand Canyon).
	Herd of Wild Turkeys foraging in an old field (Overton Wildlife Management Area).
	Herd of Wild Turkeys foraging in an old field (Overton Wildlife Management Area).

Note: All distances, elevations, and other facts are approximate.
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© Jim Boone; Last updated 080205