Turkey Question

[Morgan7782]

I was camping recently and saw some wild turkeys. There was an appendage hanging from the chest of some turkeys, and I was wondering what this was? Thanks

 

[goldenluver]

a beard

a very coarse patch of hair, feels like an old broom

 

[Morgan7782]

Thank you! I assume only the males have it? Does it have any purpose? Thanks for the info

 

[Steve_of_sandspoultry]

on some varieties the females have it to.

Steve