If you haven’t yet seen the PBS special My Life as a Turkey, I highly encourage you to watch it today. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of animals who are often seen as little more than Thanksgiving centerpieces. The film follows Joe Hutto as he raises 16 turkeys, left on his porch as eggs, from hatchlings to adulthood.

Watching the turkeys form an intense bond with their “mother,” Joe, and seeing them grow, learn, and interact would make the staunchest carnivore think twice about calling these sensitive, intelligent birds “dinner.”

Watch My Life as a Turkey in its entirety here, and be sure to share it with friends and fam. And while you’re at it, feel free to check out some of our yummy turkey-friendly Thanksgiving recipes.