Common Mistakes When Calling Turkeys — What Are They?

Inconsistent Volume

When calling turkeys, it’s essential to maintain a consistent volume, but also be mindful of the surroundings. Aim for a volume between 30-50 decibels, which is similar to a conversational tone. Using too much volume can spook birds, while being too soft may not be effective. For example, a hen’s call typically ranges from 30-50 decibels, so try to match that level.

Incorrect Tone and Pitch

The tone and pitch of your call are crucial when trying to imitate a hen turkey. A hen’s call can be described as a series of yips, chirps, and clucks, often rising and falling in pitch. Practice calling with a variety of tones and pitches to mimic the hen’s communication patterns. For instance, a yip-pitched call is used to signal alarm, while a softer, more nasal tone is used for contact calls.

Lack of Pattern Consistency

Hens communicate with each other in a specific pattern, which is essential to replicate when calling turkeys. A typical hen’s pattern consists of a series of short, high-pitched yips, followed by a series of softer, more nasal clucks. This pattern should be consistent, with slight variations to mimic the hen’s natural communication. For example, a series of 5-7 yips, followed by 3-5 clucks, can be an effective pattern to repeat and vary throughout the call.