How to Call Turkeys in the Spring
As the weather warms up and the days get longer, many backyard turkey enthusiasts are eager to start calling their feathered friends. However, calling turkeys can be a bit tricky, especially in the spring when they are still adjusting to their new surroundings. In this article, we will provide you with some tips and tricks on how to call turkeys in the spring.
Understanding Turkey Behavior
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of calling turkeys, it’s essential to understand their behavior. Turkeys are social birds that live in flocks, and they communicate with each other through a variety of vocalizations, including gobbles, scratches, and whistles. In the spring, turkeys are still establishing their territories and social hierarchies, so they may be more vocal than usual.
Choosing the Right Call
When it comes to calling turkeys, the right call can make all the difference. Here are some tips for choosing the right call:
- Use a clear and distinct call: Turkeys can hear each other from far away, so it’s essential to use a clear and distinct call that they can easily recognize.
- Avoid using too many calls: Turkeys can become desensitized to repeated calls, so it’s best to use a single call and vary the pitch and tone to keep them engaged.
- Use a call that mimics a natural sound: Turkeys are more likely to respond to a call that mimics a natural sound, such as a bird calling or a predator.
Tips for Calling Turkeys in the Spring
Here are some tips for calling turkeys in the spring:
- Start with a gentle call: Begin with a gentle call, such as a soft "gobble" or "scratch," to get the turkey’s attention.
- Use a call that mimics a natural sound: As mentioned earlier, using a call that mimics a natural sound can help the turkey recognize it as a genuine call.
- Vary the pitch and tone: Turkeys are more likely to respond to a call that varies in pitch and tone, so try using different pitches and tones to keep them engaged.
- Call at the right time: Turkeys are most active in the morning and early afternoon, so try calling them during these times for the best results.
Table: Common Turkey Calls
Call | Pitch and Tone | Description |
---|---|---|
Gobble | Low, deep | A classic turkey call, often used to signal the start of a call. |
Scratch | High, sharp | A call used to signal the turkey’s presence or to alert other turkeys to a predator. |
Whistle | High, clear | A call used to signal the turkey’s presence or to alert other turkeys to a predator. |
Chirp | High, cheerful | A call used to signal the turkey’s excitement or to alert other turkeys to food. |
Table: Common Turkey Sounds
Sound | Description |
---|---|
Bird calling | A natural sound made by birds, often used to signal the presence of a predator. |
Predator | A loud, sharp sound made by predators, often used to signal the presence of a predator. |
Water | A low, rumbling sound made by water, often used to signal the presence of water. |
Table: Turkey Call Variations
Call | Variation |
---|---|
Gobble | Gobble, gobble, gobble (variate in pitch and tone) |
Scratch | Scratch, scratch, scratch (variate in pitch and tone) |
Whistle | Whistle, whistle, whistle (variate in pitch and tone) |
Chirp | Chirp, chirp, chirp (variate in pitch and tone) |
Table: Turkey Call Frequency
Call | Frequency |
---|---|
Gobble | 2-3 times per hour |
Scratch | 1-2 times per hour |
Whistle | 1-2 times per hour |
Chirp | 1-2 times per hour |
Conclusion
Calling turkeys in the spring can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires patience and practice. By understanding turkey behavior, choosing the right call, and using the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of successfully calling turkeys in the spring. Remember to start with a gentle call, vary the pitch and tone, and call at the right time to get the best results. Happy calling!