I was looking for thanksgiving turkey crafts to do with the kiddos this month, and also some coloring sheets, when I remembered something. The more I looked at turkeys, even the simply drawn ones, they all had that red thing dripping off the side of their head.
I’ve seen it called a wattle, too, but according to Time magazine, the wattle is actually the skin folds under the turkey neck that fill with blood and puff the bird up.
The snood might serve a similar purpose, but there doesn’t seem to be a consensus or clear explanation in what I’ve found so far.
On the other hand, the wattle’s funny in it’s own way. Snoods and wattles can vary in color, size, shape, etc. But what’s funny is the wattle seems to also be an indicator of mood.
And the color and such is supposed to tell females nearby that the male’s on the prowl for a date and they may just come flocking over.
And I’m glad I’m not the only one baffled. Many of the turkey-project diagrams I’ve been printing out label that little beak-skin piece the wattle. And yet, that’s not entirely wrong, it seems.
Guess we’ve got something else to argue about come Thanksgiving dinner… better than election crap, I hope.
Any other weirdness you guys and gals have learned about the Turkey, or holiday food, or anything about Thanksgiving at all that would be fun to share? Go for it.
The curious red appendage hanging from a turkey’s neck is called a wattle. This fleshy protuberance is a distinctive feature of turkeys and plays an important role in their appearance and behavior. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the turkey’s wattle.
What Exactly is a Wattle?
A wattle is a flap of bumpy, red-colored skin that hangs down from a turkey’s neck. It is made up of a tissue called an operculum that contains a rich network of blood vessels under the surface. This gives the wattle its vibrant red hue.
The wattle is usually accompanied by another fleshy growth on top of the turkey’s head called the snood. The snood is also red but has a more slender, finger-like shape compared to the wattle’s rounded mass.
Why Do Turkeys Have Wattles?
Wattles serve multiple functions for turkeys
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Temperature regulation – The bare skin of the wattle helps release heat from the body, preventing overheating. Turkeys don’t sweat so the wattle aids evaporation.
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Dominance and mating – Male turkeys display larger, more colorful wattles during courtship to attract females The size of the wattle signifies health and virility.
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Communication – Changes in the wattle’s color, shape and engorgement can convey the bird’s mood and health status.
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Identity – The wattle contributes to the turkey’s iconic appearance. Its absence would make the turkey seem naked and less recognizable.
Turkey Wattle Facts
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Both male and female turkeys have wattles, but they are more pronounced in males.
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The wattle enlarges and becomes more vibrantly colored during mating season.
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The term “wattle” comes from the Old English word “watel” meaning a flexible piece of wood or metal.
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Other birds like chickens, pheasants and ducks also have wattles, but of varying size and color.
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Wattles can indicate a turkey’s age and health. A large, robust wattle signifies maturity and fitness.
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Although edible, the wattle is not commonly consumed. Most people prefer the turkey’s meat.
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Swelling or infection of the wattle is called “wattle disease” and can require veterinary care.
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Wattles wiggle and change shape as blood circulation and muscle contractions occur. But turkeys can’t control wattle movement.
The Significance of the Wattle
The wattle is more than just a fleshy ornament. This unique appendage allows turkeys to thrive in their environment.
As a heat regulator, the wattle prevents overheating. Its prominence indicates reproductive fitness. Changes in the wattle convey the bird’s mood and health. And its signature presence makes the turkey instantly recognizable.
So next Thanksgiving when you admire the turkey on the table, you’ll have a new appreciation for the vital role of its vibrant red wattle.
Frequently Asked Questions about Turkey Wattles
What is the red thing called that hangs down from a turkey’s neck?
The red, fleshy appendage hanging down from a turkey’s neck is called a wattle. It is made of smooth, bumpy red skin containing many blood vessels that give it the bright red color.
Why do male turkeys have a larger wattle?
Male turkeys tend to have a larger and more prominent wattle compared to females. This is because the wattle plays a role in mating displays to attract females. A large, robust wattle signals virility and fitness as a mate.
Do wild turkeys have wattles?
Yes, wild turkeys also have wattles. In fact, the wattle is a distinguishing feature of all turkey species. Both male and female wild turkeys have wattles but again, the male’s are larger and more brightly colored.
What is the red blob on top of a turkey’s head?
The red, blob-like growth on top of a turkey’s head is called the snood. The snood is also made up of erectile tissue that fills with blood and becomes redder during courtship. Along with the wattle, the snood is a characteristic appendage of turkeys.
Why does my turkey shake its wattle?
Turkeys don’t have voluntary control over their wattles. However, wattles can move and change shape as blood flow increases or decreases. Agitation, courtship, brooding, or physical activity can all lead to greater blood engorgement and wattle shaking.
Can you remove a turkey’s wattle?
Wattles can be removed during processing of domestic turkeys before cooking. But most people leave the wattle intact since it does not affect the flavor or texture of the meat. Removing wattles is a personal choice.
Are turkey wattles edible?
Turkey wattles are completely edible although the taste is predominantly that of skin. Most people don’t specifically eat wattles but they can be consumed if left attached to the turkey during cooking. The meaty breast is usually the preferred part of the turkey.
How can you tell a turkey’s mood from its wattle?
The wattle provides visual cues to the turkey’s mood and health status. A bright red, full wattle indicates happiness, health, and excitement. A pale, shrunken wattle can signal sickness, stress or boredom. Watching the wattle is a good way to discern the turkey’s overall wellbeing.
A recovering recluse stumbles from her dark hole in pursuit of a brighter world (and a decent cup of tea)
I was looking for thanksgiving turkey crafts to do with the kiddos this month, and also some coloring sheets, when I remembered something. The more I looked at turkeys, even the simply drawn ones, they all had that red thing dripping off the side of their head.
Apparently, it’s called a snood, but what the hell is it?
And why does it just hang there like that?
I’ve seen it called a wattle, too, but according to Time magazine, the wattle is actually the skin folds under the turkey neck that fill with blood and puff the bird up.
The snood might serve a similar purpose, but there doesn’t seem to be a consensus or clear explanation in what I’ve found so far.
I just find it a bit funny–what the hell is it and why?
On the other hand, the wattle’s funny in it’s own way. Snoods and wattles can vary in color, size, shape, etc. But what’s funny is the wattle seems to also be an indicator of mood.
So, a fleshy mood-ring around the neck?
And the color and such is supposed to tell females nearby that the male’s on the prowl for a date and they may just come flocking over.
Sheesh, the more I read on the turkey, the weirder it gets.
And I’m glad I’m not the only one baffled. Many of the turkey-project diagrams I’ve been printing out label that little beak-skin piece the wattle. And yet, that’s not entirely wrong, it seems.
Confused? Me too. I lost count of the differing explanations I’ve read.
Guess we’ve got something else to argue about come Thanksgiving dinner… better than election crap, I hope.
Any other weirdness you guys and gals have learned about the Turkey, or holiday food, or anything about Thanksgiving at all that would be fun to share? Go for it.