The Featherless Stage...aka the Molt!

[KOTurkeyRanch]

Well, i know turkeys go through the molt but i have some questions...

Why???

When???

Do they lose their beard???

How often???

How long do they stay without feathers???

Are there signs to know when it is coming???

Do both Male and Female do it???


please answer folks!!!!!!!!!!

 

[KOTurkeyRanch]

please give me and answer im very curious!!
=]

goodluck with the newly hatched poults!!!!!!

 

[ivan3]

You might want to start, here:

http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Meleagris_gallopavo.html

Ed: The most thorough description of molting is in the book: The Wild Turkey, James G. Dickson, National Wild Turkey Federation (U.S.), United States Forest Service

Do a google book search (will go straight to book) and type in molting.

 

[Harp Turkey Ranch]

Well, i know turkeys go through the molt but i have some questions...

Why???

When??

Adult turkeys undergo two molts each year. The complete annual molt occurs
during the summer and early autumn, following the breeding season. A partial prenuptial molt takes place in late winter.

Do they lose their beard???

NO

How long do they stay without feathers???

About a month or so

Do both Male and Female do it???

YES​

 

[KOTurkeyRanch]

thanks for replying=]

thats one funny picture, an old bald tom with a hugee beard