Category:Photographs by Anil Öztas/Meleagris gallopavo domesticus

The turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is a large bird that originated in North America and now occurs in many parts of the world. It is characterised by its massive build, long neck and distinctive fleshy crest above the beak. Male turkeys, also known as roosters or gobblers, are known for their magnificent plumage and striking colouring. Their plumage is various shades of brown, copper, green and bronze. During the mating season, they unfurl their tail feathers into an imposing fan and impress females with their spectacular display. Turkeys are ground-dwelling birds that live mainly in forests, fields and open grasslands. They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of plants, insects and small vertebrates. Their strong claws and powerful wings make them skilled runners and occasional fliers. The turkeys' courtship songs are distinctive and consist of a combination of cooing, calling and drumming sounds. These songs are used to attract females and deter rivals. In the wild, turkeys are often found in larger groups. They are able to reach fast running speeds and can fly into the air to safety in case of danger.