Took a nice gobbler yesterday but was relly shocked when I got to the downed bird. His beard was a tan/blond color from where it came out of the chest down about 4 inches. There was about a half inch transition area then the last 2 inches to the tip of the beard was a typical black color. All the hairs in the beard had this color marking.

I am curious because I have never seen a beard any color but black.

Is this a genetic thing or is there something that might cause the beard to grow out and change color as it grows?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.