What are the specialized terms used for mature male Wild Turkeys, distinguishing them from females?
Answer
Toms or gobblers
The Wild Turkey (*Meleagris gallopavo*) exhibits significant sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females have distinct physical characteristics, most notably in size. The mature male birds are specifically referred to as either toms or gobblers. These males are substantially larger than their female counterparts, known as hens. While a typical mature tom generally weighs between 16 and 24 pounds and can reach three to four feet in height, the hens are considerably smaller, usually falling into the 8 to 12-pound range. This noticeable difference in mass is a key identifier for distinguishing the sexes in the wild.
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