Turkeys fan their feathers for several reasons:
- Mating displays: toms attract hens by showing off size and beauty
- Territorial behavior: signaling that an area is claimed
- Communication: warning others of danger or threats
- Intimidation: appearing larger to deter predators or rivals
- Thermoregulation: cooling down in hot weather by exposing more body surface
Feather fanning plays key roles in courtship, territoriality, communication, intimidation, and temperature control.