READING, Mass. — For a tiny town, the most famous Thanksgiving turkey won't be on the plate.
People living in Reading, Massachusetts can't remember when their longtime mascot showed up. They just know a wild turkey named "Limpy" has become a bit of a celebrity.
The Guardian recently profiled the bird. As reporter Adam Gabbatt explains, something happened to Limpy's right leg -- causing the turkey to develop a signature gait that distinguishes him from the other fowl you'd find wandering around.
Limpy has also developed a "singular disregard for traffic laws and people’s property," Gabbatt writes.
More than 4,600 people have joined a Facebook group dedicated to the wild turkey. It's a lot -- since the town only has about 25,000 people altogether.
Erin O'Halloran Gesmundo recently shared a video to the group, featuring Limpy on top of a utility pole -- apparently going to bed for the night.
A Thanksgiving post from Brian Page has Lumpy on top of a postal service van, as a postal worker named Jim stands below the bird.
Limpy has become such an icon that children are even incorporating him into their outfits. One young girl had a Limpy hair bow in a photo posted to the Facebook group this week. Another woman had a Limpy sweatshirt.
An entire food line has emerged in the town. There are Limpy desserts and appetizers. One Thanksgiving food tray featured Limpy as a turkey made from a pear -- complete with feathers constructed with crackers, meat and an assortment of cheese. A healthier version had Limpy as a red pepper, surrounded by vegetables.
Amid all the humor is a deeper lesson for the children of Reading. Despite having a unique way of getting around, Limpy doesn't let his leg define him. For the town, it's his spirit that resonates -- not any different ability. Limpy is a role model for people with disabilities. And, we wish him many years of good health!
You can follow Limpy on Facebook by clicking here.
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