Male turkeys (known as toms) perform three main behaviors to attract mates:
- Gobble: Tom turkeys produce loud gobbling sounds to let hens know they are present and looking for a mate. The gobble is a deep, resonant call that can be heard from a long distance away.
- Strutting: When a tom spots a hen, he will begin strutting. This involves fanning out tail feathers, drooping wings, and taking exaggerated steps to catch the hen's attention and show off strength and fitness.
- Drumming: Male turkeys use their wings to create a drumming sound by spreading them, raising them over their heads, and rapidly beating them against their bodies.
These three behaviors—gobbling, strutting, and drumming—are essential components of a male turkey's mating strategy.