When is a jake not a jake

[Hook hanger]

I've seen birds in the fall have 9" beards and a reverse jake fan (shorter tail feathers in the center of fan) that i would consider to be jakes in the past spring. Thier spurs were 5/8"-3/4". As to when a jake is considered a tom some would say his second spring.

[Jim K]

My friend emailed NWTF this question. Bob Erickson emailed him back. He said at 17-18 months which is their second fall they have molted and grown in their adult plumage. They are then considered adults.

It was an interesting email but to long to post here.  But that was the answer. So there you go from the NWTF biologist.

[EZ]

He said at 17-18 months which is their second fall they have molted and grown in their adult plumage. They are then considered adults.

THIS