So I just saw a hen with at least 8 youngsters in tow. I don't think any of them were over 5 pounds. Do they even have a chance of making it through the winter at this point? It had to be a late clutch and they are so small going into fall that I just have to wonder if they are a lost cause.

I don't consider myself an expert but have killed a few. If you are questioning making it through the cold and snow? If so then yes they will easily make it. Bobcats and coyotes are another issue.

Seen 2 hens and a bunch of young a couple days ago. The poults were pigeon size.

Been seeing lots of small ones this year. We had a very wet spring and they had to keep clutching up

I’d be more worried about predation.

We've had a hen and jake hanging out all summer at our land in Northern Wisconsin. No poults, just those two always together. At first I thought one was just a bearded hen, but I got a good look at them last week while bear hunting and was able to see small spurs on the jake and it's clearly a little bigger. Thought it was strange they'd be together, unless they're sticking together for safety.

They’ll be fine. They grow very quickly, at 5 lbs they’re more than half grown already.

Yeah, they’ll be ok. Heck, we got quail running around about the size of field mice, lol. They’ll be fine too.

As long as they're feathered out they're half way there. Feathers and off the ground at night is past the most vulnerable period.

yes they will be fine

not much mast here. What about everybody else?

5pounders? Hmmmmm, I sure don't think winter would be a problem as long as they get ample food, but they'd have to stay away from me if they were in the area I fall turkey hunt..........that size would be great eating!

Feathers are incredibly good at retaining heat. If they are able to get in the trees, then they should be good.