Birds possess an innate drive to nurture their offspring, often involving the careful incubation of eggs. Female turkeys, known as hens, sit on their eggs to provide the necessary warmth and protection for development. This behavior ensures the successful progression from egg to poult.
The Incubation Process
Once a turkey hen has laid a full clutch, typically nine to thirteen eggs over two weeks, she initiates incubation, entering a state known as “broodiness.” During this time, the hen sits persistently on her eggs, maintaining the precise warmth essential for embryonic development. She often leaves the nest only for brief, infrequent intervals to eat, drink, and eliminate waste, sometimes just once a day.
Wild turkeys select secluded ground nests with good cover. The incubation period for turkey eggs spans about 28 days, with minor variations based on breed and environment. Throughout this period, the hen instinctively turns the eggs regularly with her beak or feet. This rotation prevents the embryo from adhering to the shell and ensures uniform heat distribution, a behavior mimicked by artificial incubators.
Successful hatching requires maintaining a stable internal egg temperature, ideally close to 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity levels are also important, starting around 50-60% and increasing to 65-70% during the final three days. While wild turkeys and many heritage breeds retain strong natural brooding instincts, some commercially bred domestic turkeys have reduced brooding behaviors due to selective breeding for egg production.
Life After Hatching
Upon hatching, young turkeys, known as poults, are precocial, meaning they are mature and mobile soon after hatching. They hatch with open eyes and down feathers, allowing them to stand and walk within hours. This rapid development means poults can leave the nest with their mother within 12 to 24 hours.
The hen assumes a protective and guiding role, leading her poults to food sources like insects and vegetation, and to water. She also provides shelter from potential predators and harsh weather, often allowing them to huddle beneath her wings for warmth and security.
Poults acquire survival skills through observation and imitation of their mother. They learn foraging techniques and how to recognize and react to dangers. This strong maternal bond persists for several weeks to months, until the young turkeys achieve independence.