Wild Turkey

Range covers the United States, Mexico, and parts of Canada. Habitat is mainly open woodland. Restocking after near-extinction in the early 1900s made this one of North America’s best-known conservation recoveries.

Breeding late February to May. Clutch 10–12 spotted eggs. Incubation 27–28 days. Hens nest alone. Birds are polygamous; several hens can run with one tom. Poults fly early. Standard game-bird diets work; acorns and other mast are welcome extras. Keeping regional subspecies separate is a worthwhile avicultural goal.