A few weeks ago, I wrote about wild turkeys but was told there is more information/facts on this bird that I should have mentioned. Jokingly, my response was “I ran out of room.” There usually is more I could write on different animals but didn’t think everyone would be that interested. Well Steve, here’s a few more facts about wild turkeys and I hope others will enjoy.

• Males are called Toms   
• Young males are Jakes
• Females are Hens
• Young females are Jennies
• A group is a Rafter.

Other interesting facts:

• Toms can weigh over 20 pounds and a Hen 12 pounds
• Highly intelligent
• Shows emotion by head color (red, blue, white)
• Great eyesight during the day
• Poor vision at night
• Can run 20 mph
• Can fly over 40 mph but only for 100 yards
• Hens lay 10 to 12 eggs in April and these hatch May/June and can fly within 10 days
• Have very sensitive hearing
• Fly up into trees every night to sleep (roosting)
• Take dirt baths to remove any insects or parasites and to also keep their feathers from getting matted

Here’s the most interesting fact that most people don’t know. Wild turkeys have TWO stomachs and because they don’t have teeth like all birds, will swallow tiny stones that help with their digestion. Now, thanks to Steve everyone knows a little more about wild turkeys and I will try to give more information on animals.