Brothers as Wingmen? Wild Turkey Courtship Revealed

Spring brings intense courtship for wild turkeys, revealing a complex avian social system. Male turkeys, or toms, utilize a range of displays, including vocalizations, fanned tails, and prominent snoods, to attract females. Research indicates that the length of a tom's snood is a significant factor in female mate selection, signaling good health and genetic quality.

Remarkably, some male turkeys form cooperative teams, often composed of brothers, to enhance reproductive success. These 'wingmen' assist dominant males in guarding harems, thus indirectly propagating their own genes through kin selection. This behavior deviates from a simple 'survival of the fittest' model, showcasing cooperation within the species.

The courtship process is dynamic, involving intricate visual and vocal displays that evolve over weeks. Dominance hierarchies play a crucial role, with alpha males gaining preferential access to females. Subordinate males may seek alternative opportunities or support relatives, demonstrating a nuanced reproductive strategy.