"What is Beard Rot?
There is another factor that can effect the beard length of a turkey. It is known as Beard Rot and is caused by malnutrition rather than parasites as many believe. Beard Rot is an interruption in Melanin production which gives the Beard it’s color and strength.
A turkey suffering from a Melanin deficiency will develop a light colored band or ring around the beard. Some birds may have a completely blond beard under severe cases. With the Band or Ring situation, when the turkey begins producing melanin again, the beard will return to its healthy black color. However, this band is weaker at this point and as the beard fatigues from flexing, it will eventually break off and the beard will have a truncated end with a blond to reddish coloration to it at the tip."
Great info thanks
