How old do turkeys live in the wild?
Though they were domesticated 10,000 years ago in Mesopotamia, wild turkeys likely originated in South America. Their ancestors likely arrived in the Americas about 6 million years ago when grasslands spread northward from the equator. As they migrated northward, they likely interbred with North American turkey species to develop the distinct variety we recognize today. The current population of domesticated turkeys is estimated at about 9.5 million, making them the most common bird among domestic livestock.
How old do turkeys live in the wild?
On average, a wild turkey lives for around 10 years. Individual turkeys can live much longer, as long as 30 years. However, most wild turkeys die at around age 15. Some research shows that turkey life expectancy is longer in the South and Midwest, where average temperatures are lower.
How long do wild turkeys live?
The lifespan of a wild turkey is typically between 12 and 20 years, although some have been known to live for up to 30 years. While adult turkeys are capable of breeding at four years of age, they usually wait until their first spring to do so. Only one or two chicks will be produced per year with the average family size being four to eight.
How long do turkeys live in the wild?
Depending on the breed, turkeys can live for 10 to 15 years in the wild. They go through several cycles as they mature, so an eight-year-old turkey is likely to be between 30 and 35 years old. The average lifespan of a domesticated turkey is 5-8 years.
How old do wild turkeys live?
The average life expectancy for a wild turkey is 12-15 years in the wild. This is because turkeys are susceptible to a number of illnesses, especially when they’re young. They can easily contract diseases when they come into contact with humans and domesticated animals.