Wild turkeys are large, ground-dwelling birds native to North America. Their annual life cycle includes a specific period dedicated to reproduction and egg-laying. Understanding when and how they lay their eggs provides insight into their natural behaviors and ecological adaptations.
Wild Turkey Egg-Laying Season
Wild turkeys typically begin their egg-laying activities in the spring, with timing influenced by geographical location and environmental conditions. In southern habitats, breeding can commence as early as late February or early March, while in northern states, it may not start until April. Increasing daylight hours trigger hormonal changes, signaling the onset of their breeding season.
Local weather also plays a role; warmer temperatures can encourage earlier breeding, while prolonged cold weather or persistent snow can delay it. Food availability and the hen’s physical condition also influence when she begins to lay eggs. Hens in better condition are more likely to attempt nesting and produce healthier eggs.
The peak egg-laying period generally occurs from March to May across different regions. For instance, in Florida, egg laying is primarily observed in March and April, with peak hatching in early May. If a hen’s first nest fails, she may attempt to re-nest, which can extend the laying period later into the summer, sometimes as late as August in northern areas.
Nesting Habits and Egg Details
Wild turkey hens are secretive when searching for a nest site, often choosing hidden locations on the ground. These sites are typically shallow depressions scratched into the soil, about 1 inch deep and 8-11 inches wide, often at the base of trees, under brush piles, or in thick shrubbery. Some hens may also nest in open hayfields, though concealment is a priority due to predator vulnerability.
A hen lays one egg approximately every 24 to 32 hours until her clutch is complete. A full clutch typically contains between 9 and 13 eggs, though it can range from 4 to 17.
The eggs are pale yellowish-tan with reddish-brown or pinkish spots, measuring approximately 1.9 to 2.7 inches in length. During the laying period, the hen may cover her eggs with leaves or other plant debris when leaving the nest.
From Egg to Hatchling
After laying all her eggs, the hen begins continuous incubation, sitting on them day and night. The incubation period averages about 28 days, though it can range from 25 to 31 days. During this time, she only leaves the nest for short periods, typically once or twice a day, to feed and drink.
Wild turkey poults, the newly hatched chicks, exhibit synchronous hatching, meaning all eggs in a clutch hatch around the same time, often within an hour. Poults are precocial, well-developed, covered in down, and able to walk and follow their mother shortly after hatching. They typically leave the nest within 12 to 24 hours.