Discovering the Adorable Name of Baby Turkeys: The Answer to 'What Do You Call A Baby Turkey?'

As we approach the Thanksgiving season, the image of a plump, roasted turkey may come to mind. But have you ever thought about what a turkey is called before it reaches our dinner table? You may have heard of chicks, kittens, and foals, but what about baby turkeys? In this article, we will explore the intriguing question – What do you call a baby turkey? From their unique name to their cute appearance, let’s uncover the world of these feathered creatures and discover why they are more than just birds fit for a feast.

When it comes to different types of animals, many people are curious about what the babies of these creatures are called. This curiosity often leads them to ask questions like “What do you call a baby turkey?” It may seem like a simple question, but the answer is more complex than one might think. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and go into detail about the terminology used for baby turkeys.

The Anatomy of A Baby Turkey

Before diving into what a baby turkey is called, it’s essential to understand their anatomy and how they differ from adult turkeys. Baby turkeys, also known as poults, hatch from eggs that are laid by female turkeys (hens). These eggs take approximately 28 days to hatch, and once they do, the newborn turkey has a tiny body covered in fluffy feathers.

Unlike fully grown turkeys with bright colored feathers, baby turkeys lack pigmentation in their feathers which gives them a more pale appearance. They also have small wings and short legs compared to adult turkeys that allow them to run faster from predators.

The Terminology For A Baby Turkey

Now that we have an understanding of a baby turkey’s anatomy let’s get into what they are called. The term “chick” is often associated with most newborn birds. However, when it comes to turkeys, “poults” is the correct term for baby turkeys.

The word “poult” dates back as far as the 14th century and derives from the Middle English word pulte or polte meaning “young fowl.” This term is not only used for domesticated turkeys but also for wild ones. Therefore, regardless if you see a cute baby domesticated turkey on a farm or spot one running around in the wild, they will still be referred to as poults.

The Development of A Baby Turkey

After hatching, baby turkeys are dependent on their mother for warmth and protection. They stay close to their mother for the first few weeks and gradually begin to explore their surroundings. During this time, they develop their feathers, grow in size, and learn how to fend for themselves.

Within two weeks, baby turkeys can already walk and follow their mother around. By the time they reach a month old, they are fully feathered and more independent. At this point, they are considered as “growers” since they have outgrown their vulnerable poult stage.

Differences Between Male And Female Baby Turkeys

Like adult turkeys, there are some distinctions between male and female babies that can be observed at a young age. Female poults tend to be larger than males, even though adult male turkeys (toms) are typically larger than females (hens). Another noticeable difference is in the shape of their heads; males have a more pronounced snood (fleshy growth on the top of the head) while females’ snoods remain small.

Additionally, in some turkey breeds, there is a difference in feather color between male and female poults. For example, in Broad Breasted Whites, the males have pale yellow feathers while females have darker brown feathers at hatching.

Fun Facts About Baby Turkeys

– It’s normal for baby turkeys to eat non-stop during the first few weeks since it is crucial for them to grow quickly.
– Baby turkeys have excellent night vision and can see better in low light conditions than humans.
– They can also swim as soon as they hatch!
– Poults have an innate ability to recognize certain calls from their parents which aids in staying close together or seeking assistance when needed.
– It is believed that changing their environment can cause baby turkeys to develop “short-term memory loss” and can forget where they were recently fed.

Now that you know what a baby turkey is called and some interesting facts about them, the next time someone asks, “What do you call a baby turkey?” You can confidently reply with “It’s called a poult!” Despite their small and fragile appearance, baby turkeys have impressive abilities and instincts that help them grow into mature and resilient birds.

The Common Name for a Baby Turkey: Explained

When it comes to turkeys, many people are familiar with the term “thanksgiving” or “Christmas” turkey. But, do you know what a baby turkey is called? You may have heard terms like poult or chick, but there is actually a specific name for these adorable creatures. So, what do you call a baby turkey? Let’s dive into the answer and learn more about these fascinating birds.

The Official Term: Poults

The correct scientific and official name for a baby turkey is “poult”. This term is derived from the Old French word “pollet”, which means small chicken. It was used to describe young birds of any kind but is now commonly associated with turkeys. Poults can also be referred to as juvenile turkeys since they are not yet fully grown.

What Makes Them Unique?

Poults are born with unique characteristics that set them apart from adult turkeys. They have tiny, fluffy bodies covered in soft down feathers instead of the coarse feathers of adult birds. These soft feathers provide excellent insulation and keep them warm until they can regulate their body temperature independently.

One interesting fact about poults is that they can change color! When first hatched, they have greyish-brown feathers, but as they grow older, their feathers change to brown or black. This characteristic helps them blend in with their surroundings and avoid predators.

Why Do We Call Them Poults?

The term “poult” may seem unusual compared to other bird species’ baby names like chicks or ducklings. The reason behind this lies in their biology. Turkeys are closely related to domestic poultry such as chickens, which have been bred by humans for thousands of years. This connection has influenced the language used to describe these birds.

Another reason for calling a baby turkey a “poult” is that domesticated turkeys were primarily kept for meat and eggs. So, farmers referred to young turkeys as poults to differentiate them from mature birds.

The Alternative: Chicks

While poult is the correct term for a baby turkey, you may also come across the word “chick” being used. This term is more commonly used for chickens but can refer to any young bird. The use of “chick” instead of “poult” may be due to its familiarity and simplicity. Plus, many people aren’t aware of the correct term for a baby turkey.

Fun Facts About Poults

– Poults can start walking and feeding themselves within a few hours of hatching.
– Turkeys are famous for their gobble, but did you know that poults make a different sound called a “cheep cheep”? This high-pitched noise helps them communicate with their mother.
– Baby turkeys are natural roosters and prefer sleeping in trees or high perches.
– Poult mortality rates in the wild can reach up to 80%, making it essential for poults to remain close to their mother for protection.
– In some cultures, poults are revered as lucky animals and considered symbols of fertility and abundance.

So, what do you call a baby turkey? The answer is poults! These fluffy little creatures have unique characteristics that set them apart from adult turkeys and other bird species’ babies. Whether you refer to them as poults or chicks, one thing is for sure – they are incredibly cute! Now you know the official name for baby turkeys; impress your friends with your knowledge at your next Thanksgiving dinner.

1. What do you call a baby turkey?
The correct term for a baby turkey is “poult.”

2. Is there a difference between a poult and a chick?
Yes, there is a difference between a poult and a chick. A poult refers specifically to baby turkeys, while a chick can refer to any young bird.

3. How long does it take for a poult to hatch from its egg?
It takes about 28 days for a poult to hatch from its egg.

4. What are some other names for baby turkeys?
Baby turkeys are also commonly referred to as “turkeylings” or “turklets.”

5. At what age are poults considered fully grown turkeys?
Poults are typically considered fully grown at around 6-7 months of age.

6. Do all turkeys have the same number of eggs in each clutch?
No, the number of eggs in a turkey’s clutch can vary anywhere from 10-20 eggs, depending on the individual turkey species.

In conclusion, the term used to describe a baby turkey is a poult or a chick. Despite being commonly known as “turkeys”, these young birds have their own unique names that vary depending on their age and gender. Baby turkeys, or poults, are an important part of the turkey species and play vital roles in the ecosystem. They have distinctive traits and behaviors that are essential for their survival and development.

Through this discussion, we have learned that the term “turkey” encompasses not only adult birds but also their young counterparts. We have also explored the different stages of a baby turkey’s life, from eggs to poults to full-grown adults. Additionally, we have seen how gender plays a role in identifying these young birds and the significance of knowing their proper names.

It is crucial to understand the correct terminology for baby turkeys not only for general knowledge but also in terms of conservation efforts. As humans continue to encroach on animal habitats, it is essential to know how to properly identify and care for these creatures, especially during their most vulnerable stages.

So next time you see a cute fluffy bird scurrying around with its siblings, remember that it’s not just a “baby turkey,” but rather a poult or chick depending on its

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.

Discovering the Adorable Name of Baby Turkeys: The Answer to ‘What Do You Call A Baby Turkey?’