Why Are Male Turkeys Called Toms? The Surprising Story Behind the Name

Why Do We Call Male Turkeys “Toms”? The Fun Origins Explained

Have you ever wondered why male turkeys are called “toms”? You’re not alone! This quirky nickname has an interesting history, and it’s not just a random choice. In this article, we’ll uncover the story behind the name, explore some fascinating turkey facts, and answer common questions about these gobbling birds. Whether you’re curious for Thanksgiving trivia or just want to impress your friends, you’ll find everything you need right here.

The Basics: What Is a Tom Turkey?

Simply put, a “tom” is an adult male turkey. Female turkeys are called “hens,” while young turkeys are known as “poults.” But unlike hens, toms are famous for their showy feathers, deep gobbles, and impressive size. If you’ve ever seen a turkey puffing up its chest and fanning out its tail, you were probably watching a tom in action!

Where Did the Name “Tom” Come From?

The nickname “tom” for male turkeys actually goes back to colonial America. There are two main theories about how this naming tradition started:

• Named after “Tom the Turkey”: According to one popular story, early American settlers had a habit of giving animals human names. “Tom” was a common man’s name at the time. When they noticed male turkeys strutting around and showing off, they started calling them “Tom Turkeys”—much like we might call a rooster a “Tom” or a “cock.”
• Distinguishing from “Jake” turkeys: Young male turkeys are called “jakes,” so calling an adult male a “tom” helped hunters and farmers tell them apart.

Over time, the name stuck! Today, if someone says they saw a tom in the wild, you know they mean a fully grown male turkey.

How Can You Tell a Tom from a Hen?

If you’re curious about spotting the difference between toms and hens, here are some easy clues:

• Size: Toms are much larger than hens. Adult males can weigh between 16 and 24 pounds or more, while hens usually weigh around 8 to 12 pounds.
• Feathers: Toms have more colorful, iridescent feathers. Their tails fan out in a dramatic display, especially during mating season.
• Beard: Most toms have a tuft of coarse hair-like feathers called a “beard” protruding from their chest. Hens rarely have this feature.
• Snood and wattle: Toms have longer snoods (the fleshy bit that hangs over their beak) and larger wattles (the red skin under their chin).
• Gobble: Only toms make that famous gobbling sound! Hens make softer clucks and purrs.

Fun Turkey Facts You Might Not Know

• Wild vs. Domestic: Wild turkeys can fly short distances (up to 55 mph!), but domestic turkeys bred for food are usually too heavy to get off the ground.
• Impressive Vision: Turkeys have amazing eyesight and can see in color—almost three times better than humans.
• Mating Displays: During mating season, toms puff up their bodies, fan their tails, and strut around to attract hens. This show is called “strutting.”
• Beard Growth: Not all beards are created equal! Some toms have multiple beards, and the length can help estimate their age.
• Lifespan: In the wild, turkeys live about three to five years. Domesticated turkeys usually have shorter lives due to farming practices.

Why Not Call Them Gobblers?

You might also hear people refer to male turkeys as “gobblers.” This nickname comes from their distinctive gobbling call, which they use to attract females and warn off rivals. While all toms are gobblers, not everyone uses this term. “Tom” is more widely accepted, especially among hunters and farmers.

The Female Side: What About Hens?

Female turkeys, or hens, play an important role too! They’re generally quieter and less flashy than toms. Hens lay eggs (usually about 10-15 per clutch) and raise the poults on their own. They rely on camouflage to protect themselves and their young from predators.

FAQs About Tom Turkeys

Are all male turkeys called toms?

No—only adult males are called toms. Young males are called jakes until they mature.

Can female turkeys gobble?

No, only toms make the classic gobbling sound. Hens communicate with softer calls like clucks and purrs.

Do all tom turkeys have beards?

Most do, but not all. Some hens may even have small beards, though it’s rare.

Why do tom turkeys strut?

Toms strut to attract hens during mating season and to show dominance over other males.

How big can a tom turkey get?

Wild toms can weigh up to 24 pounds or more; domestic breeds can be even larger!

Conclusion: The Next Time You See a Tom…

Now you know why male turkeys are called toms! The name has roots in American history and helps us tell these impressive birds apart from their female counterparts. Whether you spot a tom strutting in your backyard or at the Thanksgiving table, you’ll have plenty of fun facts to share with family and friends.