Sometimes it is hard to determine how old a gobbler is and should one shoot it. One way is to take a good look at its beard. Generally, beards grow at a rate of 4 - 5 inches per year; they will also get wider, thicker and darker. Therefore, if a gobbler has a beard of less than 5 inches long, he is probably less than one year old. Turkeys with beards 6 -10 inches are 2 years old and beards 10 inches plus, indicate 3 years and older. The tip color will change from amber to black as they age. Of course, many factors can influence the growth such as habitat, leg length, diet ,climate and disease. As always, the hunter will make the finale decision.