Do All Turkeys Gobble?

Although turkeys of all types share many characteristics, gobbling is not something every turkey does. Only male turkeys make the sound that is referred to as a gobble. Along with being known as tom turkeys, male turkeys are often referred to as gobblers. Female turkeys, generally known as hens, make a sound that is somewhat like a clicking noise.

More facts about turkeys:

• During the early years of the United States, Benjamin Franklin supported the wild turkey as the national bird. Instead of the wild turkey, however, the bald eagle was selected.


• Wild turkeys tend to follow a similar pattern when it comes to eating times. Feeding in the mid-morning, followed by a second feeding in the mid-afternoon is most common. Many turkeys feed by using their beaks to cut through or rip vegetation. Their feet are used to scratch through snow or leaves to find other food sources.


• The Turkey Trot was a popular dance move in the early 1960s, but the term also is used to describe the mating efforts of male turkeys. In the spring, male turkeys often spread their tail feathers while puffing out their chests and strutting around in the presence of hens. It is during this season that the male turkey is particularly prolific with gobbling, using the sounds to attract as many females as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all turkeys gobble?

No, not all turkeys gobble. Only male turkeys, known as toms or gobblers, produce the distinctive gobbling sound, especially during the spring mating season to attract females. Female turkeys, called hens, do not gobble; they make a clicking noise instead.

Why do male turkeys gobble?

Male turkeys gobble to attract females and establish dominance over other males. The gobble can be heard up to a mile away, serving as a powerful communication tool during the breeding season. It's a turkey's way of saying, "I'm here, and I'm available."

Can turkeys make other sounds besides gobbling?

Yes, turkeys are quite vocal and can make a variety of sounds. These include clucks, purrs, yelps, cuts, cackles, and kee-kees. Each sound has a different meaning, ranging from signaling contentment to alerting others of danger or communicating with poults (baby turkeys).

Is the gobble of a turkey unique to each bird?

Like human voices, each turkey's gobble is unique. However, the differences might not be discernible to the untrained ear. Experienced turkey hunters or wildlife biologists may be able to distinguish individual birds by their gobbles.

At what age do male turkeys start gobbling?

Male turkeys, or jakes, begin practicing their gobble as juveniles, around 2-3 months old, but it doesn't become robust and fully developed until they are about 7-10 months old, as they approach their first breeding season.

Does the environment affect a turkey's gobble?

Yes, the environment can affect a turkey's gobble. Factors such as weather, terrain, and time of day can influence the distance a gobble travels and how it sounds. For instance, a gobble may carry farther on a clear, calm day than on a windy one. Dense forests can also muffle the sound compared to open fields.