Wild Turkey

Meleagris gallopavo

These huge birds can be an odd sight seen among the tombstones of Swan Point, pecking at the ground or strutting along at a sedate pace. Often traveling in small flocks, they are omnivorous and forage for food on the ground during the day, while roosting in low hanging branches at night. They can fly, but only in short bursts, and primarily travel on foot. They are year-round residents and often like to stay in the same area. The male turkey has an impressive display while courting, fanning out its tail feathers and puffing up its body. The male also has a distinctive loud call that can be heard as far as a mile away, leading to the nickname "gobbler."