Turkeys are big, domesticated birds, native to North America. It is distinguished by its white plumage and a bare wattled neck and head. It has brown feathers with buff-colored features on the tail and on the tips of wings.

The name turkey was first applied to the guinea fowl that was thought to have originated in Turkey. However, the American turkey is a quite different species from the guinea fowl, though the name remained. In fact, the wild turkey was a staple food in the North American diet. It was known as a "peru" in the 18th century. Several domesticated turkeys were brought into North America by the Pilgrims in 1620. The Wampanoag tribe introduced the wild turkey to the Pilgrims. They helped the Pilgrims to raise the domesticated turkeys which they brought with them. In 1621, the first Thanksgiving was celebrated with the Wampanoag tribe members as Guests of Honor. It is believed that turkey was served at the feast, though there is no hard evidence for this. Thanksgiving became an official holiday in 1863 by a proclamation given by President Abraham Lincoln. The fourth Thursday of November is Thanksgiving Day.

Turkeys are especially associated with Thanksgiving. It is a very important part of the Thanksgiving menu. In fact, Thanksgiving Day is also known as Turkey Day. Turkeys are generally 25-35 pounds in weight. Turkeys can be bought fresh or frozen. Birds that have smooth, soft and creamy skin without any bruises or cuts are generally healthy. Fresh turkey should not be stored for more than 2 days, even in the deep freezer. Frozen turkey should be less than 2 months old. The giblets should be removed and stored separately while storing fresh turkey.

Turkey, like other poultry products, is likely to be affected by bacteria. Hence the cooking area should be very clean; the turkey should be washed and cooked properly. The stuffing should be done just before it is baked. The internal temperature of the bird should be at least 180 degrees F. This can be checked by using an internal meat thermometer.

Some favorite turkey Thanksgiving recipes are: grilled turkey brat hoagies, turkey chili, turkey breast Diane, turkey enchiladas, garlic roasted turkey, ginger lime turkey strips, seasoned turkey with rice pilaf, turkey sausage with pasta, turkey bratwurst kabobs, turkey lasagna, turkey meatloaf, turkey parmesan, turkey sausage, turkey scaloppini, stir fried turkey with walnuts and cashews, grilled southwestern Bratwurst, turkey pizza, turkey burgers and so on.