How many tail feathers?

[longbeardbuster]

I killed a big tom a few seasons ago, almost 22 lbs, 11.5 inch beard,
and 1 3/8 inch spurs that had 20 tail feathers in its fan. I was told
that was unusual because most only have 18 tail feathers in the fan.
Has anyone else killed one with an odd number of tail feathers?

[rusty dog]

ive got 1 with 19...........and 1 with 20.................never checked the others

[Mr. Longbeard]

First two I checked..

First one 18.

Second one 20

[one on one]

one had 18, this one has 19, never really counted them,any information pertaining to this, thanks

[Bobgobble2]

Most all my birds that I have taken the time to count have had 18!

[ranchand99]

All three of mine on the wall have 18 also.

[maytom]

Good question. I really never counted them before.

[hawglips]

Eighteen is normal. Never killed one with more.

I've killed several with missing feathers though.

Hal