Audubon Magazine Fall 2025 Bird Questions and Facts

Get to Know a Wild Turkey’s Weird Anatomy

Snoods, beards, and wattles—oh my!
Grid of three photos showing physical features of Wild Turkeys.
Many Wild Turkey features help the birds survive and thrive. Photos clockwise from top left: Mark Peck/Great Backyard Bird Count; Edward Moore/Courtesy of NWTF; Jeanette Tasey/Great Backyard Bird Count
By Jessica Leber
Deputy Editor, Audubon magazine
Published Fall 2025

When the average American encounters talk of turkey parts, it usually has to do with what’s on their dinner plate. Yet a close look at a turkey in the wild reveals a bird with interesting and unusual features—from spurs to snoods—that may feel less familiar.  

To better get to know the Wild Turkey’s unique anatomy, check out our brief guide below. And next time you encounter a turkey out and about in your neighborhood, you’ll be better armed with knowledge to appreciate this one-of-a-kind North American species. 

This story originally ran in the Fall 2025 issue as part of the package “Let’s Talk Turkey.” To receive our print magazine, become a member by making a donation today.