The following photos were taken in May 2000 during one of our side trips that we took as we waited for storms to develop on our storm chase tour. The location is Canyon, Texas - a spectacular vista not far south of Amarillo.
Here is the male struttin' his stuff as three females chill out nearby.
Until I saw this, I never knew that turkeys could resemble peacocks. His feathers also make a distinct rustling sound as they brush across the road.
Here is his frontal view.. His dangling apparatus possibly also had meaning for the intended females. Note his tail still in motion..
As his dance continues in fast motion, he squishes himself together at this point.
Then he flings his tail out with a loud ruffle.
We were in awe as we watched this unfold.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones!!
Blessings,
Stephen