Chicken-Like Birds: Galliformes - Physical Characteristics

Galliformes are medium to large in size, with a stocky body, small head, and short wings. Quails are the smallest species, weighing less than 1 ounce (20 grams) and measuring just 5 to 6 inches (12 to 15 centimeters). The wild turkey weighs 17 to 22 pounds (8 to 10 kilograms), and the domesticated turkey bred for eating can weigh up to 44 pounds (20 kilograms). The green peafowl measures up to 98 inches (250 centimeters) in length.

Galliformes have short bills that usually curve downward to assist in pecking plant material from the ground. Their feet are big and strong—so strong that they can move heavy branches or stone. Some galliform tails are one-third the size of their total body length. Both sexes are often brown or black, but the males of a few species are incredibly colorful.