Box,

I went out this morning as well in MD, and heard quite a few gobbles. Things are really shaping up.

To answer your question about as to why that bird left gobbling like that, I think only the bird can answer that one!! Sometimes they just do some crazy things for no apparent reason or logic.

To answer your question about setup on the opener, I think I would try to get out again next weekend and see if he's roosted in the same area and does the same thing before making a decsion.

The hens I saw/heard this morning didn't seem receptive, and it doesn't sound like your hens were, either. Could explain why he was in a hurry to try another spot. It's hard to say.

Good luck on the opener!! 8 days....

Slice