Pennsylvania has long since been known of as one of the many homes of the wild turkey. Before European settlers arrived in the US, much of the eastern coast was abundantly covered with these birds. Turkeys were a main food source for Native Americans. However, as often is the case, European settlers had to come and destroy the natural balance. Wild turkeys began to rapidly disappear with more and more settlers coming to the eastern US. Not only were they being hunted, but their habitat was being completely destroyed. Despite this, many liked the bird. It was even a candidate for our national symbol, but it was decided that this title would go to the much more majestic bald eagle. Turkeys are important not only because they are still a vital food source today, but because they are part of the history of our great country.

Before 1929, settlers...