The Surprising Origins of Christmas Turkeys and Easter Bunnies

by Jon Scaccia December 17, 2024

Have you ever wondered why we eat turkey at Christmas or why the Easter bunny delivers chocolate eggs? These festive traditions, so deeply ingrained in our celebrations, have curious and unexpected origins that stretch back centuries. Surprisingly, the turkey and the rabbit (or hare) are not native to Britain—they’re imports, much like the Christian festivals they represent.

Let’s unravel the fascinating bio-cultural history of these animals and explore how they became symbols of two of the most cherished celebrations in the calendar.

Turkeys: Exotic Guests at Christmas Feasts

The turkey, a bird native to the Americas, first appeared in Europe in the early 1500s. According to historical accounts, English merchant William Strickland brought six turkeys to Britain in the 1520s, selling them in Bristol. At first, turkeys were exotic animals displayed rather than eaten.

However, by the mid-16th century, the turkey had become a prized dish. Its large size and breeding cycle made it perfect for midwinter feasts. A single bird could feed a family, and poults (turkey chicks) hatched in the spring were ready for slaughter by Christmas. This practicality, coupled with its novelty, helped turkeys replace rabbits and other game on the festive table.

By the 1570s, Thomas Tusser’s famous book Five Hundred Points of Good Husbandrie listed the turkey as an essential Christmas dish, alongside beef, pork, and goose. Centuries later, the turkey remains a centerpiece of Christmas dinners in Britain, the United States, and beyond.

The Easter Bunny’s Hopping Mystery

The Easter bunny’s story is even more enigmatic. Early Christian festivals often absorbed local pagan traditions, and Easter, named after the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre, was no exception. Eostre was associated with spring and renewal, but there’s little historical evidence tying her to hares or rabbits.

Hares, which are native to Britain, have long been regarded as mystical creatures. During the Iron Age, they were not eaten but revered for their “exotic” qualities. Roman authors even described their use in augury (a form of divination). Over time, the hare may have been linked to fertility symbols, as its ability to reproduce rapidly aligned with themes of springtime renewal.

The first clear connection between hares and Easter comes much later, in 17th-century Germany. Protestant families in Heidelberg told stories of an “Easter hare” delivering eggs to well-behaved children, a tradition that evolved into modern Easter egg hunts. When German immigrants brought this custom to England and America, the hare was eventually replaced by the more familiar rabbit.

What These Traditions Tell Us

While the exact origins of these holiday animals remain elusive, their stories highlight our tendency to blend cultural, religious, and practical influences into cherished traditions.

• Turkeys at Christmas reflect a shift toward practicality and novelty in feast-day foods. Their adoption was driven by convenience and availability, cementing their status as a holiday staple.
• The Easter bunny embodies the blending of pagan fertility symbols with Christian celebrations, showing how cultural practices evolve and adapt.

Fun and Practical Insights for Pet Owners

While we’re on the topic of turkeys and rabbits, here are some tips for those who share their homes with these animals:

For Rabbit Owners:

1. Nutrition Matters: Just like humans, rabbits thrive on a balanced diet. Offer hay, fresh greens, and limited pellets to keep them healthy.
2. Provide Enrichment: Rabbits are curious creatures that need mental stimulation. Give them toys, tunnels, or cardboard boxes to explore.
3. Recognize Signs of Illness: Watch for subtle signs like a change in appetite or droppings—they can signal a health issue.

For Turkey Owners (or Enthusiasts):

1. Space to Roam: Turkeys need ample space to stretch their wings and forage.
2. Social Creatures: Turkeys are surprisingly social. Keep them in small flocks for their well-being.
3. Seasonal Care: During colder months, ensure their shelters are dry and draft-free.

Connecting Traditions to Modern Pet Care

These fascinating histories remind us of how deeply connected humans are to animals, whether in ancient rituals, feast-day traditions, or everyday pet care. They also challenge us to think critically about the stories we tell and the ways we celebrate.

Whether it’s choosing humane farming practices for your Christmas dinner or ensuring your pet rabbit gets the best care, small decisions can make a big difference.

Share Your Pet’s Story

Do you have a rabbit or another festive pet at home? How do you celebrate holidays with your furry friends? We’d love to hear your stories!

• What’s your favorite memory involving your pet during the holidays?
• How do you ensure your pets stay healthy and happy during busy festive seasons?
• Have you ever created a holiday tradition inspired by your pets?

Share your experiences in the comments below!