
Likely Wild Turkey (also Turkey); identification is tentative from the photograph.
Kingdom Animalia; Phylum Chordata; Class Aves; Order Galliformes; Family Phasianidae; Genus Meleagris; Species Meleagris gallopavo.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectFamily: Phasianidae (pheasants, grouse, turkeys, and allies).
- Shape
- Long, narrow, and strongly asymmetrical, with a rounded, slightly tapered tip.
- Size
- No scale is provided, so dimensions cannot be estimated reliably; it appears several inches long.
Found a feather like this?
Identify any feather from a photo, free.
Description
The specimen is a boldly barred flight-like feather consistent with a turkey. Wild Turkeys are large, long-legged ground birds with dark, iridescent plumage and broad wings; they forage by scratching and fly in short, powerful bursts.
Colour & Pattern
Bold alternating dark brown-to-black and pale cream bands cross the vanes; the shaft is pale. Pattern and apparent contrast may vary with lighting and wear.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous vanes with closely interlocking barbs; some loose, downy barbs remain near the base. No obvious specialized comb-like edge.
Rachis & Barb Pattern
A slender, pale rachis divides the banded vanes; the barbs are densely arranged, with uneven edges and loose basal material.
Texture & Surface
Mostly smooth, firm flight-feather surface, matte to mildly glossy under the light; basal portion appears softer.
Feather Placement
Probably wing, based on its narrow form and apparent asymmetry; the photo alone does not establish placement confidently.
Key Features
High-contrast transverse barring, pale shaft, and elongated asymmetrical shape. These traits suggest a large galliform, but do not prove species or position.
Habitat
Wild Turkeys use woodland edges, open forests, fields, and suburban mosaics, roosting in trees and foraging on the ground.
Geographic Range
Native across much of the United States, including Minnesota, and parts of southern Canada and Mexico; generally resident, with local movements.
Ecological Role
Wild Turkeys are omnivores and prey for large predators; they also disperse seeds while feeding. The species is widespread, though local habitat loss and hunting management affect populations.
Similar Species
Barred feathers of grouse, pheasants, and other turkeys may look similar. Compare size, band spacing, shaft color, and the full feather; a photo alone is insufficient for certainty.
Interesting Facts
Wild Turkeys roost in trees at night and can fly strongly despite spending much of the day on the ground.
Cultural Significance
Turkey feathers have longstanding cultural and artistic significance, including in Indigenous traditions; feather possession and use may be regulated, so follow applicable laws and do not collect protected wild-bird feathers without authorization.
Field Identification Tips
Photograph both sides beside a ruler and record where it was found. Check nearby habitat and other feathers, but avoid disturbing nests or handling live birds.
Condition Notes
Appears intact with some basal looseness; no clear severe breakage or contamination is visible. Overall condition: good, based on the image.
Notes
Minneapolis MN