President Biden commenced the holiday season by pardoning two turkeys, Liberty and Bell, from being part of the White House Thanksgiving meal this week.
Originally from Willmar, Minn., these turkeys enjoy Honeycrisp apples, ice hockey, and the Mall of America, as mentioned by the National Turkey Federation.
During a formal ceremony at the White House, Biden humorously remarked, “Even though Liberty and Bell are from Minnesota, they’re named for the famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. These birds have a new appreciation for the words ‘Let freedom ring.’”
Joking about missing the first-ever turkey pardon 76 years ago, Biden said, “I was too young to make it up.”
As is customary, Liberty and Bell have been staying at the Willard InterContinental hotel near the White House. After their visit to Washington, D.C., they will head back to the University of Minnesota.
“They are headed to a quiet and comfortable roost at the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and there they will serve as educational ambassadors,” said Jeff Ettinger, the University of Minnesota’s interim president during a press conference.
Unfortunately for Liberty and Bell, their freedom won’t last long, as domestic turkeys are typically prepared for consumption at around 18 weeks.
Domestic turkeys, like Liberty and Bell, typically experience health problems that lead to their short lifespan. They are bred to be plump and flavorful, but the extra weight affects their organs, resulting in a lifespan of less than a year.
Traditionally, wild turkeys live three to four years, half as long as their bred counterparts.
While Liberty and Bell have dodged fate this Thanksgiving, it’s unlikely they’ll be around for next year’s festivities.
