Male turkeys use iridescent fans to attract mates
Male wild turkeys fan their iridescent tail feathers into stunning displays during spring courtship, signaling health and genetic quality to attract mates and ensure strong offspring.
During spring courtship, male wild turkeys, called toms, put on a spectacular show to attract females. They fan their tail feathers into a broad, shimmering display, often called strutting. These 18-feather fans boast iridescent bronze, green, and copper hues, created by microscopic structures that reflect light. This vibrant display signals the male's health and genetic quality.
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