Ever spotted a bunch of turkeys strutting around and wondered what they’re called? I’ll admit, I used to just say “a bunch of turkeys.” Turns out, the real answer is way more fun—and a little surprising. So let’s dig in and clear up the mystery of what a group of turkeys is called.
The Official Term for a Group of Turkeys
A group of turkeys is called a rafter. Yes, you read that right—like the beams holding up a roof. The term dates back hundreds of years and is still recognized today.
Other less common names exist too. You might hear “gang” or “flock,” but “rafter” is the traditional word that pops up in dictionaries and old hunting guides.
Why “Rafter”?
The word “rafter” is a quirky one. Some historians believe it comes from the way turkeys roost together in trees, almost like beams lined up in a ceiling. When turkeys gather in big numbers, their clustered look probably reminded early settlers of rafters in a barn.
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Turkeys often sleep high up in trees to avoid predators.
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Their habit of sitting close together made the name stick.
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Even today, wild turkeys will fly into trees at dusk to spend the night.
Other Fun Turkey Facts
Once you know what a group of turkeys is called, you can’t help but want to know more about these birds. Here are some gems:
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A male turkey is called a tom, while a female is a hen.
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Baby turkeys are poults, and they grow fast—able to fly short distances within just a couple of weeks.
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Wild turkeys can actually fly, unlike their domesticated cousins bred for size.
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During mating season, toms puff up their feathers and fan their tails in a display called strutting.
Turkey Gatherings in the Wild
If you’ve ever driven through a wooded area in the U.S., you may have spotted a rafter of turkeys. These gatherings aren’t just random. They’re about safety, food, and social behavior.
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Turkeys forage together, scratching the ground for seeds, nuts, and insects.
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A rafter provides extra eyes to watch for predators.
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Their group structure helps teach younger turkeys survival skills.
It’s pretty amazing how social these birds are when you start paying attention.
My Take on It
The first time I learned the term “rafter of turkeys,” I couldn’t help but laugh. It sounded more like a construction project than a wildlife fact. Now, whenever I see them crossing the road near my neighborhood, I picture them as a feathered roofing crew on break.
Wrapping It Up
So now you know—a group of turkeys is called a rafter, though “flock” or “gang” will also get the point across. From their quirky names to their surprising habits, turkeys are way more interesting than the birds that just show up on the Thanksgiving table.
Have you ever seen a rafter of turkeys in the wild? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear it!