Bearded hens

[NYDAN]

I was surprised when this flock of 16 birds came out of the woods and walked up to within 100 feet of the house. It was notable since there were a couple of bearded hens in the group. One had about an 8" beard. Another had a beard about the size of a jake's beard. In the photo of the lone bird, you can just make out the beard.

It is legal in New York state to shoot any bearded turkey in the spring season. My brother actually shot one once. We think we have seen the one with the longer beard several times the last couple of years.

 

[DrMike]

Great photos, Dan.

 

[JD338]

Very cool Dan. We have had a few around here with the biggest one about 5". They are definitely fun to watch.

JD338

 

[wvbuckbuster]

Over the years I have seen them a few times and got one couple of falls ago. Beard looked like a young jake about 4 ins long and big around as your little finger. The bearded lady ate just as good as her sisters would have Dan.