The lifespan of a turkey that manages to evade the cooking pot can vary depending on various factors such as predation, illness, and environmental conditions. On average, a wild turkey can live up to 3-5 years in the wild. However, there have been instances where turkeys have been known to live up to 10 years or more in the wild. Turkeys that are able to avoid being hunted by predators such as foxes, coyotes, and birds of prey have a better chance of living longer. Additionally, turkeys that are able to find reliable sources of food and water are more likely to survive for a longer period of time. Environmental conditions can also play a role in the lifespan of a wild turkey. Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures can make it difficult for turkeys to find food and survive. On the other hand, mild winters with plenty of food sources can help turkeys thrive and live longer. It is important to note that domesticated turkeys, which are raised for food production, have a much shorter lifespan compared to wild turkeys. Domestic turkeys are typically slaughtered for meat between 12-26 weeks of age, depending on the breed and purpose of raising. If you are interested in learning more about the lifespan of wild turkeys, you can visit the website of the National Wild Turkey Federation at https://www.nwtf.org/ for more information. The NWTF is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of wild turkeys and their habitats. In conclusion, the lifespan of a turkey that evades the cooking pot can vary depending on a variety of factors. While wild turkeys have the potential to live up to 3-5 years or more in the wild, domestic turkeys raised for food production have a much shorter lifespan. If you want to learn more about wild turkeys and their habitats, be sure to check out the resources provided by the National Wild Turkey Federation.

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