When I was a child, we used scratchings to look for turkeys instead of using Google to find out what they ate. We would go for a walk in the woods, where there was no internet at all. Then we’d check the fields and pastures for cows sh*t. You see, manure provides game birds with excellent fodder because it contains all those undigested corn kernels and seeds. You get that tip for free.
If you’re looking for a succinct answer to the query, “What do turkeys eat?” I’ll give it to you right now. Although they are omnivores and eat a wide range of foods, insects, mild greens, acorns, berries, corn, soybeans, sorghum, milo, sunflowers, chufa, and other seeds and grains are among their favorites.
However, if you’re a hunter, you should stay for the lengthy response that follows. Based on my observations from 29 years of hunting in nine states, talking with biologists, and preserving wildlife habitat, I offer a traditional lesson on what wild turkeys will eat in it. Why is it worth it? Because you will definitely get more gobblers if you can respond to the question, “What do turkeys eat?”
Ah, the majestic wild turkey. A symbol of Thanksgiving feasts and a challenging quarry for hunters these birds play a vital role in North American ecosystems. But what do these fascinating creatures eat? Do turkeys eat corn and if so, what other foods do they enjoy?
The Omnivorous Appetite of Wild Turkeys
Because they are omnivores, wild turkeys eat both plant and animal materials. They can adjust to different settings and food availability all year round thanks to this varied menu.
The Top 5 Wild Turkey Foods
While turkeys have a wide-ranging palate, some foods are particularly attractive to them. Here are the top five wild turkey foods:
1 Cracked Corn: This readily available and affordable food source is a favorite among turkeys Cracked corn is easily digestible and provides essential protein and fiber.
2. Seeds: Sunflower, milo, and millet seeds are a nutritious treat for turkeys, offering a variety of vitamins and minerals.
3. Nuts: Especially in the winter, acorns, beech nuts, and hickory nuts make tasty and high-energy food for turkeys.
4. Crabapples: These small, tart fruits are a readily available and inexpensive food source for turkeys.
5. Leaves: While turkeys don’t directly eat leaves, they provide a habitat for insects and small reptiles that turkeys love to snack on.
Do Turkeys Eat Corn?
Yes, turkeys do eat corn, and it’s a popular food source for them. But it’s crucial to remember that corn shouldn’t be their only food source. A well-rounded diet comprising diverse food sources is imperative for their overall health and welfare.
Other Foods Turkeys Enjoy
Turkeys love a wide range of other foods in addition to the top five listed above, such as:
- Insects
- Small reptiles
- Berries
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Grass
Feeding Wild Turkeys
If you’re interested in attracting wild turkeys to your property, you can provide them with a variety of food sources. Here are some tips:
- Scatter cracked corn, seeds, or nuts in open areas.
- Plant trees and shrubs that produce nuts and berries.
- Create a brush pile to provide shelter for insects and reptiles.
- Leave piles of leaves to attract small creatures that turkeys love to eat.
Wild turkeys are fascinating creatures with a diverse diet. While they do eat corn, it’s important to provide them with a variety of food sources to ensure their health and well-being. By understanding their dietary needs, you can attract these magnificent birds to your property and enjoy their presence.
What Do Turkeys Eat? Four Favorite Foods
Wild turkeys are found in all 50 states, Mexico, Central America, and southern Canada, with the exception of Alaska. Turkeys can survive in almost any kind of environment, so their diet is highly varied and depends on the time of year and climate. However, regardless of their location, wild turkeys typically have a few favorite foods that they will focus on. Furthermore, hunters will have an advantage when it comes to finding game to hunt if they are aware of these favorites—whether through Googling “what do turkeys eat” or not. Therefore, turkey hunters should be aware of these four essential foods that turkeys consume.
What Do Turkey Eat? Table of Contents
- What Do Turkeys Eat? Four Favorite Foods
- Turkeys Eat Bugs
- Tender Greens Are Important Early
- Turkeys Eat Hard and Soft Mast
- Seeds and Grain
- How Knowing What Turkey Eat Helps Your Hunting
What Can I Feed Wild Turkeys?
FAQ
What is a wild turkey’s favorite food?
What foods can turkeys not eat?
Can turkeys smell corn?
Do turkeys like cut corn fields?
Do turkeys eat corn?
Corn kernels are the full version of corn. If you scatter them in front of the turkeys, they will eat that. But wild animals find corn kernels and eat them. That means turkeys eat corn kernels. You can either buy the whole corn or break them into parts. Turkeys can eat corn on the cob. You can cook them and offer the cooked version as well.
Is corn a healthy food?
The main source of green corn is carbohydrate, which is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream and prevents blood sugar spikes. Another benefit is the presence of fibers, which contribute to intestinal health and promote the feeling of satiety. And I can’t stop talking about Vitamins and minerals, vitamin A and complex B, which contributes to good mood and the nervous system. Among the minerals, we have magnesium, potassium, iron and copper.
Can baby turkeys eat corn?
On the other hand, you can blend the whole corn with water or other foods. It is the best method to feed baby turkeys. So, you can follow these three methods and feed your turkeys. Corns are my favorite wild animal food. It has pretty much everything a bird needs to grow. On the other hand, it has good taste as well. It’s an edible seed.
Is sweet corn good for turkeys?
They prefer whole sweet corn to cracked corn as it’s more delicious for them. As much as it’s fun to spread sweetcorn round for the turkeys, it is important to note that it is not very high in protein. Turkeys require a diet which is high in protein as it helps their muscle development and egg laying.