As a seasoned outdoor writer and hunter with over a decade spent immersed in the American wilderness, I’ve learned that understanding turkey vocalizations is paramount to success – and enjoyment – in the field. The turkey kee kee call, often referred to as a kee kee run, is arguably one of the most crucial sounds to master. It’s a versatile call used for a variety of purposes, from locating lost poults to assembling a flock. This guide will delve deep into the nuances of the kee kee run turkey call, covering its purpose, how to execute it effectively, and when to use it for optimal results. We’ll also explore variations like the turkey key key and turkey assembly call, helping you become a more proficient turkey communicator.
Understanding the Turkey Kee Kee Call: What is it and Why Does it Work?
The kee kee is a lost or separation call primarily used by young turkeys (poults) to locate their mother. It’s a high-pitched, plaintive sound that triggers a strong response from hens, who will instinctively attempt to locate and gather any lost offspring. Mature gobblers will also respond, hoping to locate the hen and her brood. The effectiveness of the turkey kee kee lies in its ability to tap into a primal instinct – the protective drive of a hen. According to the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), hens are incredibly responsive to these calls, especially during breeding and nesting seasons. (NWTF Website)
The Different Types of Kee Kee Calls
While the basic kee kee run call sounds similar, subtle variations can dramatically impact its effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown:
- The Basic Kee Kee: This is the foundational call, consisting of a series of 3-5 “kee” notes, often followed by a “cut” or “cluck.”
- The Kee Kee Run: A more urgent and frantic version, with faster, more repetitive “kee” notes. This is used when a poult is truly lost and panicked. This kee kee run turkey call is particularly effective during the early spring when poults are newly hatched.
- The Assembly Call (Turkey Assembly Call): A series of kee kees followed by a series of clucks and purrs. This call is used to gather a flock, and can be very effective in late season when flocks are breaking up.
- The Key Key (Turkey Key Key): A softer, more subtle version of the kee kee, often used by hens to check on their poults. It’s less aggressive than the full kee kee run.
How to Make a Realistic Turkey Kee Kee Call
There are several methods for producing a convincing turkey key key or kee kee run call. You can use a dedicated kee kee call (slate, glass, or crystal), a diaphragm call, or even your voice. Each method requires practice, but here’s a guide to get you started:
Using a Kee Kee Call (Slate, Glass, or Crystal)
- Grip: Hold the call firmly but not tightly.
- Striking: Use a striker to gently rub across the surface of the call. The speed and pressure will determine the pitch and tone.
- Kee Sound: Create the “kee” sound by applying light pressure and a quick, upward stroke.
- Run: For a kee kee run call, increase the speed and repetition of the “kee” notes.
- Practice: Listen to recordings of real turkey kee kee calls (All About Birds - Turkey Sounds) and try to mimic them.
Using a Diaphragm Call
Diaphragm calls require more practice but offer greater control and versatility. The key is to manipulate your tongue and airflow to create the desired sound. REI Expert Advice offers excellent tutorials on diaphragm call techniques. (REI Expert Advice - Turkey Hunting Calls)
Using Your Voice
While challenging, it’s possible to mimic a turkey kee kee with your voice. Focus on creating a high-pitched, plaintive sound. Practice saying “kee-kee-kee” with varying degrees of urgency and inflection. This method is best used as a last resort, as it’s often less convincing than using a dedicated call.
When and Where to Use the Kee Kee Call for Maximum Effectiveness
Timing and location are crucial when using the turkey kee kee call. Here’s a breakdown of optimal scenarios:
- Early Spring: This is prime time for using the kee kee, as hens are actively nesting and highly responsive to lost poult calls.
- Edge of Fields and Woods: Call from areas where turkeys are likely to transition between feeding and roosting areas.
- Near Roosting Areas: Calling near roosts can draw turkeys in early in the morning.
- After Locating a Gobbler: Use the kee kee to see if you can locate a hen with him.
- When Scouting: Use the call to elicit a response and determine turkey presence in an area.
Strategic Kee Kee Calling Sequences
Don’t just blast the kee kee run call repeatedly. A strategic sequence is more likely to produce results:
- Start Soft: Begin with a few soft kee kees to gauge the response.
- Increase Intensity: If you don’t get a response, gradually increase the volume and urgency of the call.
- Listen: After each sequence, pause and listen intently for a response.
- Vary Your Calls: Mix in clucks, purrs, and yelps to create a more realistic soundscape.
Advanced Techniques: Combining the Kee Kee with Other Calls
To truly elevate your turkey calling game, learn to combine the turkey kee kee with other calls. For example:
- Kee Kee followed by Yelp: This can simulate a hen calling for her lost poults and then responding to a gobbler.
- Kee Kee followed by Cluck and Purr: This creates an assembly call, suggesting a hen is gathering her flock.
- Kee Kee followed by Cutting: This can indicate a frustrated hen searching for her poults.
Ethical Considerations and Leave No Trace Principles
As responsible hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s crucial to practice ethical hunting and adhere to Leave No Trace principles (Leave No Trace Website). Avoid overcalling, which can spook turkeys and disrupt their natural behavior. Always respect wildlife and their habitat. Pack out everything you pack in, and minimize your impact on the environment. The USDA Forest Service provides guidelines for responsible recreation on public lands. (USDA Forest Service Website)
Troubleshooting: Why Isn't My Kee Kee Call Working?
If you’re not getting responses to your turkey kee kee run call, consider these factors:
- Call Quality: Is your call realistic? Practice and compare your calls to recordings.
- Location: Are you in an area with turkeys? Scout the area beforehand.
- Timing: Is it the right time of year and day?
- Pressure: Are you overcalling? Less is often more.
- Wind: Wind can carry your call in unpredictable directions.
Mastering the turkey kee kee call takes time, patience, and practice. But with dedication and a thorough understanding of turkey behavior, you can significantly increase your chances of success in the field. Remember to always prioritize ethical hunting practices and respect the natural world. For more advanced turkey hunting techniques, check out our article on Reading Turkey Body Language and Setting Up a Successful Turkey Blind.