Fortunately, effective restoration programs were introduced and the populations recovered. In the early 1900s, the population of wild turkeys hit a record low of nearly 30,000 birds as a result of pervasive hunting. 3 Wild turkeys were at the brink of extinction. Europeans called these birds ‘turkish chicken’ or ‘turkey cock.’ When Europeans saw a similar-looking bird in North America, they thought it was the same fowl and the name turkey cock-later shortened to turkey-remained. 2 The American turkey is named after the country Turkey due to a case of mistaken identity.Īn African bird called the guinea fowl (which resembles the American turkey) was brought to Europe through Turkish lands by the Portuguese. On Thanksgiving, we give thanks for live turkeys-not the ones stuffed with breadcrumbs. In fact, Mayan religious imagery depicts turkeys as representations of God, and they worshipped as symbols of power and prestige. In 300 B.C., turkeys were more than just the centerpiece meal at the table. Here are 12 facts about turkeys to warm your heart and make your omnivore family think twice about what’s for dinner.ġ Turkeys were revered in ancient Mexican cultures. We know these social birds are far more than a centerpiece at a holiday table-they’re sentient beings that deserve to live out their natural lives to the fullest. Every year, close to 46 million turkeys are slaughtered for Thanksgiving alone. However, unfortunately, this season is not warm and fuzzy for everyone. Fall marks the season of comfort with its colorful foliage, warming fall flavors, and cozy sweaters.