Turkeys are native to North America, and their natural habitat varies depending on the subspecies. Wild turkeys can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, grasslands, and swamps. They are adaptable birds and can survive in a range of environments, from desert scrub to coastal forests.
Eastern wild turkeys, which are the most common subspecies, are typically found in hardwood and mixed forests in the eastern half of North America, from the southern parts of Canada to the northeastern regions of Mexico. They prefer areas with dense cover for nesting and roosting, and open areas for feeding.
Rio Grande turkeys are found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, typically in areas with open grasslands and savannas, and in riparian areas with cottonwood and mesquite trees.
Merriam's turkeys are found in the western United States and southwestern Canada, typically in mountainous areas with ponderosa pine forests and oak brush.
Osceola turkeys, also known as Florida turkeys, are found only in the state of Florida and prefer areas with dense palmetto and cypress swamps.
Gould's turkeys are found in the mountainous regions of northern Mexico and the southwestern United States, typically in oak-pine forests and grasslands.
Overall, wild turkeys are adaptable birds that can thrive in a variety of habitats, as long as they have access to cover for nesting and roosting, and open areas for feeding.
Wild turkeys are ground-dwelling birds and are most commonly found in forests, woodlands, and grasslands. They prefer areas with a mix of open areas and cover, such as forests with clearings or savannas with scattered trees. Turkeys are also found in agricultural areas with fields and pastures, where they can forage for seeds, insects, and other food sources.
During the winter, wild turkeys may move to areas with lower elevations and milder climates, where food sources are more abundant. In the spring and summer, they may move to higher elevations and cooler areas to escape the heat and find fresh food sources.
Wild turkeys are social birds and typically live in flocks of 5-50 birds, with larger flocks forming in the winter. They are diurnal and are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, spending the middle of the day resting and digesting food.
Overall, the natural habitat of turkeys varies depending on the subspecies and geographic region, but they are adaptable birds that can thrive in a variety of environments as long as they have access to food, water, cover, and suitable nesting and roosting sites.
