Differences Between Domesticated and Wild Turkeys

How do domesticated turkeys of today differ from the wild turkeys that Native Americans used? Domesticated turkeys are larger, more docile, usually white-feathered, genetically reconfigured, and dependent on humans for survival. They also maintain juvenile characteristics due to selective breeding, known as neotony. In contrast, wild turkeys are dark-feathered, can fend for themselves, and retain adult characteristics and behaviors.

Physical Traits

Domesticated Turkeys: Domesticated turkeys have been bred for specific traits, such as size and temperament, making them larger and more docile than wild turkeys. They are usually white-feathered.

Wild Turkeys: Wild turkeys are dark-feathered and retain their natural physical characteristics.

Dependency on Humans

Domesticated Turkeys: Domesticated turkeys are dependent on humans for food and shelter due to centuries of selective breeding and human care.

Wild Turkeys: Wild turkeys can forage for food and have evolved to survive in the wild without human intervention.

Genetic Differences

Domesticated Turkeys: Domesticated turkeys have been genetically reconfigured to meet the needs of human societies, leading to neotony where they exhibit juvenile characteristics.

Wild Turkeys: Wild turkeys have not undergone selective breeding and maintain their adult characteristics and behaviors.

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