how do you turkey call

Wild Turkey Vocalizations and Mimicry

Wild turkeys employ a complex system of vocalizations for communication, including various calls and sounds used for different purposes such as mating, alarm, and social interactions. Accurate mimicry of these sounds is a key element in hunting strategies.

Types of Turkey Calls

  • Yelp: A short, high-pitched sound, often used by hens and young birds.
  • Cluck: A softer, lower-pitched sound, common in hen vocalizations and sometimes used by toms.
  • Purr: A low, guttural sound, often associated with hens and their nesting behavior.
  • Gobble: A loud, resonant sound produced primarily by male turkeys (toms) during the breeding season to attract hens and assert dominance.
  • Fly Down Cackle: A series of yelps and clucks, typically heard early in the morning as toms leave their roosting locations.
  • Putt: A soft, low-pitched sound, often used as a soft alarm call or to express contentment.

Call Production Techniques

Effective vocal mimicry requires understanding the nuances of each call type, including pitch, rhythm, and intensity. Various tools are used to reproduce these sounds:

Mouth Calls

These calls involve manipulating the tongue and mouth to create the desired sounds. Practice and skill are essential for producing realistic and effective calls.

Box Calls

Box calls use two wooden surfaces to produce sound through friction. The calls vary based on the type of wood, the style of the box and the technique used to manipulate the surfaces.

Slate Calls

Slate calls utilize a slate surface and a striker to generate sound. The tone and volume can be controlled by manipulating the angle and pressure of the striker against the slate.

Pot Calls

Pot calls employ a combination of materials (often ceramic, metal or wood) that are struck together to produce a wide range of sounds.

Factors Affecting Call Effectiveness

  • Wind Conditions: Wind can significantly affect call projection and clarity.
  • Environmental Noise: Background noise can mask calls, reducing their effectiveness.
  • Call Timing: The appropriate use of calls at different times of day and during the mating season is crucial.
  • Call Placement: Strategic placement of the caller can influence the effectiveness of the call.

Anatomy and Physiology of Turkey Vocalization

The syrinx, located at the base of a turkey's trachea, is responsible for sound production. Differences in syrinx structure and muscle control contribute to the variations in turkey calls.