Can Using Overly Loud Calls Scare Away Turkeys?

Understanding Turkey Behavior

When hunting turkeys, it’s essential to understand their behavior and reaction to different stimuli. Turkeys have a highly developed sense of hearing, which they use to communicate and detect potential threats. Loud calls can be perceived as an alarm signal, causing the birds to become alert, and potentially flee the area.

Choosing the Right Call Volume

To avoid scaring away turkeys, it’s crucial to use the right volume when calling. A general rule of thumb is to keep the call volume below 80 decibels. This is roughly the equivalent of a normal conversation. If the call is too loud, it can be heard from a distance, potentially alarming the birds. For example, a 2-3 second “gobble” call at 60-70 decibels can be effective in attracting turkeys, but the same call at 90 decibels or higher may scare them away.

Call Placement and Technique

Aside from volume, the placement and technique of the call can also affect the turkeys’ reaction. It’s generally best to place the call in a way that it sounds like it’s coming from a nearby turkey, rather than directly from the hunter. This can be achieved by placing the call in a location where it will be reflected off a surface, such as a tree or a rock, rather than having it come directly from the hunter’s location. Additionally, using a series of shorter, more natural-sounding calls can be more effective than a single, loud call.