Meleagrology (TURKEYS) with Cyler Conrad

In this richly detailed episode of Ologies, host Allie Ward dives deep into the world of turkeys with Dr. Cyler Conrad, a zooarchaeologist and self-proclaimed 'melagrologist' who studies the complex relationship between humans and turkeys across North America. From their ancient domestication by Indigenous peoples in the American Southwest and Mesoamerica to their modern-day urban presence, the episode reveals that turkeys are far more intelligent, socially complex, and culturally significant than commonly believed. Conrad debunks myths—from the false story of Benjamin Franklin advocating for the turkey as America’s national bird to the viral tale of turkeys drowning by looking up in the rain—while highlighting their remarkable behaviors, including their ability to imprint on humans, their role in ceremonial life, and their use in arrow fletching and feather blankets. The conversation also explores the psychological paradox of eating animals we love, the genetic legacy of domesticated turkeys in wild populations, and the surprising emotional intelligence of these birds, which can even 'gobble back' at humans in what feels like a conversation. The episode closes with a heartfelt call to study turkeys more deeply and a touching personal anecdote about a toothbrush, underscoring the show’s blend of science, humor, and humanity.