Mississippi wildlife officials highlight the role of gizzard stones in turkeys

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks has highlighted the role of gizzard stones in wild turkeys during Turkey Tuesday.

Turkeys lack teeth and rely on a muscular organ called the gizzard to grind food. The bird intentionally ingests small stones, pebbles, and grit, which stay in the gizzard to help break down food items such as seeds, acorns, and insects.

These smooth stones function like built-in teeth, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption. The gizzard is often overlooked, but wildlife officials say it is a vital part of a turkey’s anatomy.

Many hunters save gizzard stones from harvested birds as keepsakes. Officials encourage hunters to examine the gizzard of their game this season, as it may contain colorful stones that helped fuel the bird’s activity all year long.

Source: Original Article