1. Size: Male turkeys are generally larger than females, both in terms of weight and overall size. Gobblers can weigh up to 25 pounds or more, while hens typically weigh around 12-15 pounds.
2. Head and Neck: Male turkeys have larger heads and thicker necks compared to females. Gobblers also have a fleshy protrusion on the top of their beak called a snood, which is more pronounced during breeding season.
3. Beard: Male turkeys have a beard, which is a tuft of long, hair-like feathers that hangs from their chest. Hens do not have beards.
4. Spurs: Male turkeys have sharp, pointed spurs on the back of their legs, just above their feet. Spurs help gobblers defend themselves during fights with other males. Hens have shorter, duller spurs.
5. Tail Feathers: The tail feathers of male turkeys are longer and more elaborate compared to females. Gobblers have a fan-shaped tail display that they spread when they are displaying or trying to attract mates.
6. Coloration: Male turkeys generally have brighter and more vibrant plumage compared to females. Gobblers have iridescent feathers with a mix of dark and light colors, including bronze, green, and blue. Hens are usually duller in color, with a more mottled or gray-brown appearance.
7. Calls: Male turkeys produce a variety of distinctive vocalizations, including gobbling, clucking, and drumming. Hens have a different range of calls, which are often higher-pitched and less varied compared to gobblers.
It's important to note that these physical and behavioral characteristics can vary depending on the specific subspecies of wild turkey. However, the general differences mentioned above can help in distinguishing between male and female turkeys.