Do Turkey Hens Have Beards? An Exploration of This Unique Trait

Beards are a characteristic feature of male wild turkeys also called toms. But did you know that some female turkeys known as hens, can also sprout beards? While not as commonly seen or as pronounced as in males, bearded hens do exist in wild turkey populations.

What Are Turkey Beards?

Turkey beards consist of long, hair-like feathers that project out from the chest. Usually dark brown or black in color, beards look distinctly different from the contour feathers that cover a turkey’s body.

In males, beards are generally quite long and thick, averaging around 10 inches though some can reach lengths over 1 foot The beards start growing when males are young and continue growing longer each year Mature toms often have multiple beards sprouting from their chests.

Why Do Male Turkeys Have Beards?

The beard is thought to be an indicator of health, vigor and dominance in male wild turkeys. Long, robust beards signal to females during mating season that the male is fit and able to mate. Competing males also assess each other’s beards as a show of strength.

So the beard plays an important biological role for male wild turkeys It distinguishes males from females and aids in courtship displays, breeding rights and pecking order among males

Do Female Turkeys Have Beards Too?

While most people associate beards with male turkeys, some hens can also develop beards. However, it is much less common compared to males.

Research shows that around 10% of female wild turkeys may have beards. But the beards are noticeably smaller, thinner and more wispy-looking compared to males. Often under 3 inches in length, hen beards may be hard to see or overlooked entirely.

So while the occurrence of bearded hens is low, it does happen naturally within wild turkey populations. The reason why only some females develop beards is not fully understood. Genetics may play a role.

Identifying Bearded Hens vs Males

Since most females lack a pronounced beard, a visible beard is a good clue that a turkey is likely a male. But bearded hens can cause confusion during hunting season.

Here are some tips for distinguishing males from bearded hens:

• Look at beard length – Longer beards over 5 inches usually indicate a male.

• Check for multiple beards – Toms often have more than one beard.

• Note thickness – Thin, wispy beards suggest a female.

• Watch for other male features like spurs, body size and feathers.

• Check local regulations – Some states prohibit harvesting bearded hens.

Do Domestic Turkeys Have Beards?

Among domestic turkeys, both males and some females can grow beards too. However, domestic turkey beards tend to be far less pronounced than their wild counterparts according to poultry owners.

Some reasons domestic toms have smaller beards:

• Hens may pick at and thin out long beards.

• Lack of male competition reduces need for long beards.

• Domestication may select against heavily bearded traits.

• Confined environments may limit beard growth potential.

Still, beards can be an indicator of a male domestic turkey, especially when multiple thin beards are present.

Beard Uniqueness in the Turkey Kingdom

While many birds sport unique plumage and mating features, the turkey’s beard remains an unusual phenomenon in the avian world. This distinctive feather growth sets turkeys apart from other birds.

The fact that a small percentage of hen turkeys also display beards makes this trait even more intriguing. So next time you see a bearded turkey, take a moment to appreciate the wonders of their unique anatomy that evolved to aid survival and reproduction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Beards

How can you tell a hen turkey from a tom turkey?

Look for multiple long beards, large spurs on legs, and ruffled feathers on a tom turkey. Hens lack long beards, have no spurs and sleek body feathers. Toms are bigger and stockier overall.

At what age do male turkeys start growing beards?

Male turkeys begin growing beards around 5-7 months old. The beard continues growing longer each year, with mature toms having beards over 1 foot long.

Why do turkey beards grow so long?

Long beards help male turkeys attract females and assert dominance over other males during breeding season. The length and thickness signals health, fitness and testosterone levels.

Can turkey beards fall out?

Yes, turkeys can lose their beards by damage from brush and weather, vitamin deficiencies causing beard rot, or fighting with other males. Lost beards usually regenerate.

Are bearded turkeys rare?

Bearded hen turkeys are relatively uncommon, making up less than 10% of the wild population. Most bearded turkeys are males. Very long beards over 1 foot are more rare.

The occurrence of beards in both male and female wild turkeys is a fascinating aspect of their anatomy and behavior. While longer, more abundant in males, beards do occasionally develop in females too. This unique trait plays an integral role in the life of these iconic birds.