The term designating an adult female turkey is a hen. This nomenclature is consistent with the naming conventions applied to other fowl species, where “hen” signifies a mature female bird. For example, a farmer might state, “The hen turkey is displaying nesting behavior,” to describe a specific observation.
Correctly identifying the sex of a turkey is essential for successful poultry management and wildlife conservation. Understanding the reproductive cycle and behaviors associated with hens is crucial for optimizing breeding programs on farms and for monitoring population dynamics in wild turkey populations. Furthermore, it informs hunting regulations aimed at preserving healthy turkey stocks.