what is a jake turkey

What is a Jake Turkey? A Comprehensive Guide for Beginner and Seasoned Hunters

As a beginner turkey hunter, one of the first things you’ll need to learn is how to identify the different types of turkeys you may encounter in the wild. While hens and mature tom turkeys are more commonly known, you’re also likely to run into young male turkeys called “jakes”. But what exactly is a jake turkey and how are they different from mature gobblers? This comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to know to identify jake turkeys and whether or not they’re worth targeting.

Defining the JakeA jake turkey is a juvenile male wild turkey under 2 years old. Typically around 1 year old jakes are essentially the teenager boys of the turkey world – full of energy and enthusiasm but lacking the maturity of older toms. They are named “jake” in reference to a young male turkey’s tendency to “jak-jak” in place of the loud gobbles of mature toms.

While a mature tom turkey is called a “gobbler,” jakes are referred to as “shortbeards” due to their distinctive shorter beards. On an adult gobbler, the beard can reach 7-9 inches long or even longer. On a jake turkey, the beard is typically less than 6 inches.

Other Distinguishing Characteristics
In addition to the shorter beard length, there are other physical characteristics that can help you distinguish a jake from a mature tom:

• Size – Jakes are smaller, weighing between 8-12 pounds on average compared to up to 20+ pounds for a mature tom.

• Plumage – Jakes have duller, brownish feathers compared to the iridescent bronzed plumage of mature toms Their heads also lack the vibrant red, white and blue coloration

• Tail feathers – Jakes have shorter, rounded tail feathers compared to the long, pointed feathers of mature toms.

• Spurs – Jakes have short, blunt spurs, usually 1/2 inch or less. Mature toms have pointed spurs over 1 inch long.

• Strutting – Jakes don’t often fully strut Their “jak-jak” calls replace the resonant gobbles of mature toms,

Hunting Considerations

When it comes to hunting, there are pros and cons to consider before deciding whether to target a jake. Here are some of the key factors:

Pros:

• Abundance – Jakes are far more numerous than mature toms, making them easier to locate.

• Wariness – Jakes are less cautious and easier to call in than mature gobblers.

• Challenge – Still provides hunting challenge without the difficulty of a mature tom.

• Population control – Harvesting jakes helps control turkey populations.

• Eating – Jakes provide fine table fare, even if less meat than mature toms.

Cons:

• Size – Jakes offer much less meat compared to a mature tom.

• Ethics – Some feel it’s more ethical to target mature gobblers.

• Experience – Pursuing jakes may provide less experience handling mature toms.

• Preference – Many hunters prefer only harvesting mature gobblers if given the choice.

The decision to hunt jakes is a personal one based on your experience level, hunting goals, and preferences. Many novice hunters get their start by hunting jakes before moving on to mature toms. Youth and mentored hunts also often center around jakes. Ultimately, educated and responsible hunting of jakes can be an excellent option within regulations and your comfort level.

Turkey Identification Tips

When you’re out hunting, here are some expert tips to accurately identify those jakes:

• Focus on beard length – A beard less than 6 inches indicates a jake.

• Estimate weight – Jakes are noticeably smaller and lighter than mature toms.

• Look for duller plumage – A lack of vibrant feathers indicates a jake.

• Examine tail feathers – Short, rounded feathers mean it’s a jake.

• Consider behavior – Is it “jak-jaking” rather than gobbling? Probably a jake.

• Look for hens – Jakes often travel and interact with brood hens.

• Assess surroundings – Jakes prefer open fields versus mature forest.

• Confirm spurs – Blunt spur less than 1 inch confirms a jake.

With this comprehensive knowledge in your hunting vest, you’ll be able to expertly identify and hunt jakes with skill and confidence. Remember to use responsible hunting practices, follow regulations, and only take ethical shots. Good luck pursuing those crafty young jakes!