5 Turkey Facts You Never Knew: Just in Time for Thanksgiving

As we slip into our annual Thanksgiving food coma, stuffing consumed, plates cleared, and leftovers secured, we naturally start reflecting on everything we’re thankful for. Family, friends, and peaceful naps all make the list. But let’s not forget the unsung hero of the holiday: the turkey.

This iconic bird has shaped Thanksgiving traditions for centuries. Whether it’s the star of the feast or the topic of chaotic family debates, the turkey deserves its moment in the spotlight.

Here are 7 little-known turkey facts that are fun, weird, and absolutely worth sharing at the dinner table.

1. Male Turkeys Are Called Gobblers for a Reason

One of the most well-known (but still hilarious) turkey facts: male turkeys literally gobble to attract females. The females, simply called hens, respond more to the gobbler’s appearance than his soundtrack. Think of it like nature’s version of the dating game.

2. Turkeys Have Both a Snood and a Wattle

If you’ve ever wondered what those dangly face parts are called, here it is:

• Snood = the flap that hangs over the beak

• Wattle = the red skin under the chin

These features help turkeys regulate heat and communicate with each other.

3. Wild Turkeys Run and Fly Faster Than You Think

A surprising wild turkey fact: they are fast.

• Turkeys can run up to 25 mph

• Wild turkeys can fly up to 55 mph

Basically, don’t anger a turkey and assume you can outrun it.

4. Benjamin Franklin Thought Turkeys Were More “Respectable” Than Bald Eagles

Contrary to popular myth, Benjamin Franklin never officially tried to make the turkey the national bird. But he did call the turkey “a much more respectable bird” than the bald eagle. Bold take, Ben.

5. Wild Turkeys Nearly Went Extinct in the 1900s

In the early 20th century, wild turkeys were almost wiped out, dropping to just 30,000 birds. Thanks to major conservation efforts, their population has exploded to around seven million today. Now that is a comeback story.

BONUS: Americans Eat a Shocking Number of Turkeys During the Holidays

This is the Thanksgiving turkey fact everyone wonders about:

• 46 million turkeys are eaten on Thanksgiving

• 22 million more on Christmas

Final Thoughts: The Turkey Deserves More Credit

From their survival story to their incredible speed, turkeys are much more fascinating than their holiday reputation suggests. So the next time you fill your plate, take a moment to honor this remarkable bird.

Gone, but never forgotten. Gobble gobble.

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