They hang out with the females in the winter yards. After mating, when spring is truly here, the females go off and make a nest in the leaves and lay their eggs. The ton's job is done!
They can lay 3 - 17 eggs. All About Birds says they eat vegetation, but they scratch around the bottom of trees, and eat insects, too. They are omnivores.
I saw a hen escorting about a dozen of her chicks across the back yard one year in summer. Too quick for a photo, as they are vulnerable to predators, and they know it.
This was a video I shot in 2011, right out the door. Our grass isn't green, yet, in April, 2017!
wild turkey courtship from Jennifer Jilks on Vimeo.
12 comments:
Going up to 15 today. We should all be out strutting ... so to speak.
Spring is in the air.
They are bold and beautiful, strutting as if their life depended on it. And, the next generation, does just that. I wonder how the ladies really feel when they see all those tail and wing feathers so arranged for a great showing off. Have a peaceful Easter. XXX
Hari OM
who needs David Attenborough when you have live vision?! YAM xx
neat video, it's mating season all right!
The toms can be vicious. They will chase you and by god you will run!
You are right, Red. They can be. I make sure I startle them or chase them when I see them. That keeps them from getting over friendly or bold!
That's a great video of the male courting the females. You sure do get lots of wildlife in your yard. - Margy
They are fun to watch.
Twitterpated is a great word ... and perfect description of these none-too-bright guys!
Great video.
All the best Jan
OH MY GOSH! So MANY turkeys!
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