At first glance, the turkey might not appear to be the most beautiful of birds. But look closely and you'll find black feathers with a brilliant metallic bronze sheen accented by gold, green and red highlights. Its bald neck and head sport a blue hue with vivid red "wattles", the fleshy skin handing from its neck and throat, and at the base of its bill. Like peacocks, the male "Tom" turkey struts its stuff during mating season, fanning out its tail and changing skin color from red to white and blue in search of interested female hens. Males also have spurs on the backs of their feet used to battle with other territorial Toms for mating rights. The famous gobble gobble call is often used in concert to better attract mates, but can also signal danger or assemble a flock.

The Gallinaceous Group

Turkeys belong to an order of chicken-like birds called "Galliforms". All birds in this group are ground-dwelling species that are excellent runners and strong fliers, but cannot remain airborne for long periods of time. Their beaks are short and curve downwards, while their legs are strong with hard nails, both well-suited for pecking and scratching the ground for food. Despite these similarities, the over 250 species of birds in this group vary greatly in size, shape, and color.

Put your knowledge of turkey traits to the test in our "Spot the Feathered Fraud" game.