What do wild turkeys eat?

Wild turkeys are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders, meaning they will consume a wide variety of foods depending on what is available in their environment. Their diet typically consists of a combination of plant and animal matter, including:

- Seeds: Turkeys primarily feed on seeds, such as acorns, beechnuts, and corn.

- Fruits and Berries: They also consume a variety of fruits and berries, including blackberries, blueberries, grapes, and cherries.

- Leaves and Vegetation: Turkeys will eat leaves, buds, and other vegetation, especially during the spring and summer months when these foods are abundant.

- Insects: Turkeys will often eat insects, such as grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars, which provide a source of protein.

- Small Animals: Wild turkeys may occasionally prey on small animals, such as frogs, lizards, and snakes, particularly during the breeding season when they need extra protein to support their reproductive efforts.

- Human Food: Turkeys are known to be opportunistic feeders and may consume human food scraps, pet food, or agricultural crops if they are available.

The specific composition of a wild turkey's diet can vary depending on the time of year, habitat, and availability of different food sources.