Image © Jim Gain
Nomenclature
Scientific Name: Meleagris ocellata
Name in Spanish (Mexico): Guajolote Ocelado
Name in Mayan: Kuuts
ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: OCTU
About this Species
One of only two Turkey species worldwide. The Ocellated Turkey (Meleagris ocellata) is a large bird species found in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. It is a member of the turkey family and is distinct from the more familiar wild turkey species found in North America.
The Ocellated Turkey is known for its striking plumage, which includes iridescent feathers in shades of blue, green, and bronze, as well as bold eye-shaped spots (ocelli) on its tail feathers. Males are larger and more brightly colored than females and can grow up to 4 feet in length.
These turkeys are primarily forest-dwelling birds, inhabiting tropical rainforests and other dense woodlands. They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of plant and animal matter, including fruits, seeds, insects, and small reptiles.
The Ocellated Turkey has a fascinating social behavior, with males engaging in elaborate courtship displays to attract females during the breeding season. These displays involve fluffing their feathers, puffing out their chests, and making a series of gobbling, clucking, and purring sounds. Females will lay 8-15 eggs in a ground nest, and both parents will take turns incubating the eggs.
*Occurrence and Distribution in the Yucatan Peninsula
RESIDENCY STATUS: Yearround Resident
FREQUENCY STATUS: Fairly Common in the NE of Guatemala, NW of Belize and Southern Campeche, Uncommon to Rare in the North and East of there.
DISTRIBUTION TRENDS: Highest populations are in the med-central region of the peninsula.
*This information was gathered from eBird (www.ebird.org)