What is the scientific name for a turkey? The turkey scientific name is Meleagris (Genus).
A turkey is not merely a bird seen at holiday feasts; it constitutes an intriguing biological species with ancestral ties to the continent of North America. This comprehensive guide conducts readers through the turkey’s scientific name, genus, pronunciation, biological classification, meaning, and several other fascinating tidbits, including its sounds, types of diet, habitat, and varieties.
What is Turkey Scientific Name?
Meleagris gallopavo is the scientific name of the wild turkey, and Meleagris ocellata is the scientific name of the ocellated turkey.
- Meleagris gallopavo Pronunciation: meh-lee-AH-gris gal-lo-PAH-vo
- Meleagris ocellata Pronunciation: meh-lee-AH-gris oh-suh-LAH-tuh
What Does the Turkey Biological Name Mean?
- Meleagris: It comes from Greek and means guinea fowl.
- Gallopavo: Now for the Latin, a blend of gallus (rooster) and pavo (peacock).
Meaning: “Guinea fowl-like rooster-peacock” about its appearance.
