I’ve seen some big snoods in my time photographing turkeys but this guy’s has to have been the longest. Okay, I freely admit that sounds funny but it is true. 😉
The snood on a turkey is the flopping protuberance coming from above the turkey’s bill. It can grow and shrink and even change color depending on the bird’s mood. Generally, longer and redder indicate the turkey is relaxed, potentially courting the ladies. It is believed turkey hens are attracted to longer and brighter snoods and in that case, this guy should have no problem come mating season.
Wrapping up my photo excursion on Sunday I found our local rafter of turkeys hanging out near the post office so of course had to stop and snap some pics. They were quite animated on this day, making lots of noise and giving me a fun photo op.