Are wild turkeys native to California?
Yes, wild turkeys are native to California. The Merriam's turkey (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) is a subspecies of wild turkey that is native to the state. It is found in the oak woodlands and coniferous forests of the Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges, as well as in the Klamath Mountains and the Transverse Ranges. The Merriam's turkey is a large bird, with males weighing up to 20 pounds and females weighing up to 12 pounds. It has a distinctive plumage, with a dark brown body, a white head and neck, and a fan-shaped tail. The Merriam's turkey is an important game bird in California, and it is also a popular bird for birdwatching and photography.