7 Reasons Turkeys Are Friends Not Food, And What You Can Eat Instead This Holiday Season

Three hundred million turkeys are killed for human consumption each year. As the holidays approach, many families will reunite over the body of a turkey who was separated from her own family for her whole life, only to be slaughtered. Contrary to popular belief, turkeys are amazing, complex beings who deserve love and friendship instead of suffering and death.

1. They have unique voices

Turkeys recognize each other's voices. They also exhibit at least 30 different vocalizations, researchers have found. Males have a distinct gobble that can be heard from over a mile away. One distinct turkey sound is called "purring" which is aptly named, for it does sound similar to the purring of your cat companion!

Tofurky makes a plant-based roast with wild rice stuffing. A fantastic choice for a cruelty-free feast!

2. They form strong social bonds

If a turkey is removed from her friends, she will often cry out in distress until she is reunited with them. Free turkeys sometimes travel in groups of 200 or more.

Gardein offers a holiday roast with stuffing that includes cranberries! (This one is my personal favorite.)

5. They show their emotions 

A turkey's head and throat change color depending on his mood. Male turkeys also display their plumage in order to attract a mate.

Try the Breaded Turkey-less Roast at Trader Joe's for a delicious holiday experience.

6. They are great cuddlers

Turkeys are extremely affectionate and love to be petted. Even those who are survivors of cruel industries often cuddle up to human strangers. How forgiving and awe-inspiring is that?

You can always DIY your turkey-free meal, too! Here's one recipe idea.

Aren't these traits that you love in your own human friends? All of the turkeys pictured are living out the rest of their lives in freedom. They are residents of sanctuaries that treat them as the individuals that they are, instead of as commodities. Every animal deserves this kind of justice. You can do your part by trying a vegan lifestyle.

Sources: Barn Sanctuary, Farm Sanctuary, One Kind Planet