How the Turkey Almost Became America’s National Bird
The story of the turkey’s near rise to national symbol begins in the early years of the United States, when leaders were choosing an emblem to represent the new nation. Benjamin Franklin took a special interest in this decision, and in a private letter he shared his belief that the turkey deserved the role more than the bald eagle. He described the turkey as a native species that early settlers and Indigenous communities had long known, hunted, and observed in the wild. To him, this connection made the turkey a more fitting choice for a country trying to define its identity.
At the time, wild turkeys roamed across much of North America and were recognized for their strength and surprising agility. They could run up to 20 miles per hour, fly short distances at high speed, and use more than 30 vocalizations to communicate. Settlers often noted how quickly turkeys could react to danger, spotting movement from far away and working together in groups to stay safe. These behaviors shaped Franklin’s view that the turkey represented determination and awareness.
The bald eagle, however, carried strong visual appeal and a dramatic silhouette. When the Continental Congress reviewed design proposals in 1782, the eagle appeared on several versions of the Great Seal. Despite Franklin’s private objections, the eagle’s sharp outline and widespread recognition won over the committee. The turkey simply did not gain enough support.
Although the turkey did not become the national bird, its place in American life never faded. It continued to be central to farming, hunting traditions, and eventually Thanksgiving celebrations. The story of its near selection remains a unique moment in early American decision making, illustrating how even everyday wildlife played a role in shaping national symbols.
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