Aug 20, 2023 · Telling the difference between a hen and a tom turkey is crucial for any turkey hunter. Not only is it important for hunting regulations, but it can also affect the quality of the meat you bring home. One of the most obvious differences between …

Apr 23, 2018 · Turkeys, famed for their great size and native North American origin, can be easily distinguished by gender when they reach maturity. Females, or hens, are smaller and duller in color, with less prominent body features. Males boast a huge fanning tail, "beard" feathers and prominent appendages.

The turkey is a large bird in the genus Meleagris, native to North America. There are two extant turkey species: the wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) of eastern and central North America and the ocellated turkey (Meleagris ocellata) of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico.

Let’s begin with the basics of distinguishing male wild turkeys (gobblers) from females (hens). Gobblers are larger-bodied birds, with a darker coloration, at times appearing almost black. In bright sunlight, their feathers cast a brilliant bronze or metallic iridescence.

Hens become secretive while searching for a site to nest prior to laying eggs. Nests are shallow depressions formed by scratching, squatting and laying eggs. Moderate dense understory is preferred to allow hens a view, but also provide protection. Hens lay between 10-12 eggs during a two week period.

Read on for a comprehensive guide on exactly what a hen turkey looks like and how to tell them apart from gobblers. Hens are smaller and less bulky compared to male turkeys, but still large birds, averaging 10-14 pounds in weight and around 4 feet long.

Mar 2, 2025 · Spotting a fretful solitary hen also stirs empathy for turkeys’ inherent social needs. While typically temporary, the vulnerability of hens when alone is poignant. So although uncommon, observing a lone female turkey offers an intimate portal into the rich landscape of turkey behavior.

Apr 17, 2023 · Female turkeys, or “hens”, are smaller and less colorful, with shorter tails and legs. Male turkeys, also known as “toms,” are generally larger in size and sport a prominent fleshy protuberance on their bills called a “snood.”

Dec 8, 2024 · Female turkeys, known as hens, are fascinating creatures that play a vital role in the life cycle of the species. While often overshadowed by the larger and more colorful male turkeys (toms), hens possess unique characteristics and behaviors that are crucial for the survival and continuity of turkey populations.

Mar 27, 2025 · Some key facts about hen turkeys: In the wild, hens are smaller, drabber, and less decorated than their male counterparts. They lack the flashy colors, pronounced wattles, and long tail feathers of adult males. If you see a small, plain turkey, it’s likely a mature hen. Young female turkeys under 16 weeks old are specifically called jennies.