A Turkey Sighting
If there is any one bird that perfectly represents autumn, it would be the turkey! But what is the meaning of a turkey sighting? Well, there’s a lot more to turkey symbolism than its association with Thanksgiving. Often thought of as a good omen, seeing a turkey can mean a lot of great things — almost all of which are worth giving thanks for.
What Is a Turkey?
The turkey’s dark plumage and fan-shaped tail contrast with the bright red snood that hangs below its beak. They have large bodies, often weighing between 15-20 pounds, and small bald heads. Domestic turkeys are flightless. Though they have wings, they stay grounded. Their cousins, the wild turkey, can fly — if only short distances. Seeing a turkey in flight is a rare sight and may suggest a desire for adventure and escape.
Turkeys are native to North America and were domesticated over 2,000 years ago in pre-Columbian Mexico. With a special connection to the priests and aristocrats of the time, turkeys frequently appear in ancient Mayan manuscripts. The Spanish took turkeys from Mexico to Europe, and the English later brought turkeys back to New England.
While many predators (including humans) hunt the turkey, turkeys themselves feed on an omnivorous diet of snails, insects, nuts, and berries. If you see a large group of turkeys, keep your distance. Like many other birds, turkeys have a social hierarchy or “pecking order.” This can lead to aggressive outbursts and sometimes even cannibalism. Because of their headstrong temperament, turkeys are often thought of as masculine symbols.
More Than a Food Source
Despite being the shining star of “Turkey Day,” turkeys are much more than a Thanksgiving entrée. Even without the sides and dressing, turkey symbolism is generally used to indicate prosperity and harvest. As such, the turkey encourages people to count their blessings and respect the nourishment offered by the earth. Often bringing loved ones together, a turkey can symbolize the importance of familial and platonic relationships.
Turkey symbolism isn’t just about a holiday; it also represents a unique work ethic. Turkeys strive to take care of their flock and maintain a safe place to roost, making them hard workers and proud members of their social order. A turkey sighting may indicate that your efforts, at home or at your job, are very much appreciated.
While the term “turkey” is sometimes used as an insult that means “unwise,” turkeys themselves are actually incredibly intelligent. In many Native American tribes, it’s believed that turkeys have a strong intuition for the future, especially for events related to the weather.
The Pima people view the turkey as a rain spirit. While rain may sometimes dampen your plans, it is necessary for life. Seeing a turkey may be a sign that you too are going through a storm that you must weather before you can grow. As a symbol of sacrifice, the turkey is a reminder that letting go of one thing is often the key to making room for something new.
Dreaming of a Turkey
No, dreaming of a turkey does not just mean that you are hankering for a midnight snack. Turkeys roost in large groups — they are not very solitary animals. Dreaming of a turkey may mean that you’re craving the kinship or protection of your loved ones. If you have been isolating yourself, your dreams may be telling you that it is time to reach out for some comfort and warmth. There is strength in numbers!
Dreaming of a turkey as food may indicate an upcoming bounty. Open yourself up to new opportunities. Eating turkey in a dream could also be a reminder that you will reap what you sow. If you have been hard at work on something, your dream self may be prompting you to take the time to enjoy the rewards of what you’ve earned.
The Turkey as a Totem and Spirit Animal
As a totem, the turkey brings its wearer strong spiritual connections. Some Native American tribes have revered the turkey as a guide for the dead. Turkey feathers are also used in burial ceremonies, clothes, and dances.
Those who feel a connection to the turkey as a spirit animal love productivity. Outgoing and gregarious, the turkey spirit is very confident. As early risers, turkeys are happy to contribute to the lives of those around them. Like the buffalo, the spirit of the turkey will sometimes put others first because they realize that what benefits one life benefits them all.
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