I have at least 30 wild turkey that visit my bird feeders daily. Of these 30 birds, I see NO male turkey so I assume my turkeys are all hens w/their this past springs young, My question(s): #1 Why don't I see gobblers in the fall (I do see them during the spring mating season) but never see them this time of the year? #2 When will the young males (past spring hatched)turkeys (jake)start growing their spurs and beards? Thank You!!!

During the winter, hens and their poults will group together. The older males often remain solitary or band in small groups. Spurs and beards start growing the first year, but get larger over time. Check out these two good resources for more info: http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=622246&mode=2

http://www.clemson.edu/extension/natural_resources/wildlife/publications/fs35_eastern_wild_turkey.html