Raising turkeys can be an incredibly rewarding experience for those interested in sustainable living, self-sufficiency, or simply enjoying fresh, delicious turkey meat.
While turkeys may not be as common as chickens in backyard flocks, they are relatively easy to care for and can provide a valuable source of meat and eggs.
Everything you need to know about raising turkeys will be covered in this extensive guide, from choosing the best breed to housing, feeding, and maintaining their general health and well-being.
1. Choosing the Right Turkey Breed
The first step in growing turkeys is selecting the appropriate breed for your goals. There are several popular breeds to consider:
Broad-breasted white: This breed is the most common type found in commercial turkey production. They grow quickly and have a large breast size, making them ideal for meat production. However, they are not well-suited for breeding or foraging due to their size and limited mobility.
Bourbon Red: A heritage breed known for its rich flavor and ability to forage and reproduce naturally. They are smaller than commercial breeds but take longer to reach butchering weight.
Narragansett: Another heritage breed with a distinctive black and tan plumage. They are excellent foragers and do well in free-range environments.
Royal Palm: A relatively new breed developed in the 1960s for its excellent meat quality and calm temperament. They are a good choice for small-scale production.
When choosing a breed, consider factors such as your intended purpose (meat, eggs, or both), available space, and climate conditions.
2. Housing and Environment
Turkeys require a secure and comfortable living space to thrive. Here are some of the of the essential housing requirements:
Coop: Turkeys need a well-ventilated coop or shelter to protect them from predators and harsh weather conditions. The coop should be spacious enough to accommodate their size and provide at least 4 square feet of space per bird.
Run: In addition to the coop, turkeys benefit from having access to an outdoor run or pasture area where they can forage and exercise. The run should be securely fenced to prevent predators and provide shade and shelter from the elements.
Nesting Boxes: If you plan to collect eggs, provide nesting boxes filled with clean, dry bedding material such as straw or pine shavings.
Roosting Bars: Turkeys prefer to roost off the ground, so install sturdy roosting bars or perches at a height of about 2–3 feet.
Bedding: Line the coop floor with a thick layer of absorbent bedding material, such as wood shavings or straw, to help keep the area clean and dry.
3. Feeding and Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for the growth, health, and egg production of turkeys. Here’s what you need to know about feeding:
Starter Feed: For the first 8 weeks, turkey poults (baby turkeys) should be fed a high-protein (28% protein) starter feed specifically formulated for turkey growth.
Grower Feed: From 9 to 14 weeks, transition to a grower feed with a lower protein content (around 20%) to support their developing muscles and bones.
Finisher Feed: For the final 6–8 weeks before processing, provide a finisher feed with a protein content of around 16–18% to promote optimal weight gain and meat quality.
Layer Feed: If you plan to collect eggs, you’ll need a layer feed with a higher calcium content (around 2.5–3.5% calcium) to support strong eggshells.
Grit: Turkeys require insoluble grit (small stones or gravel) to aid in digestion, as they lack teeth for grinding food. Provide a grit source in their run or supplement their feed.
Fresh Water: Clean, fresh water should be available at all times, as turkeys can consume up to a gallon of water per day.
4. Health and Biosecurity
Maintaining good health and implementing biosecurity measures are crucial for successful turkey raising. Here are some key points to consider:
Vaccinations: Discuss vaccination requirements with your veterinarian or local extension office. Common vaccinations for turkeys include those for Newcastle disease, fowl pox, and other respiratory diseases.
Biosecurity: Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of diseases to your flock. This includes quarantining new birds, using dedicated clothing and footwear when handling turkeys, and limiting visitors to the coop area.
Parasite Control: Regularly monitor your turkeys for external and internal parasites, such as lice, mites, and worms. Treat infestations promptly with appropriate medications or natural remedies.
Predator Control: Secure the coop and run to protect your turkeys from potential predators like foxes, raccoons, and hawks. Consider using electric fencing or other deterrents if necessary.
Ventilation and Cleanliness: Maintain proper ventilation in the coop to prevent respiratory issues and ammonia buildup. Regularly clean and replace bedding to keep the living area dry and sanitary.
5. Breeding and Reproduction
If you plan to breed turkeys, there are a few additional considerations:
Breeding Age: Hens typically reach breeding age around 7–10 months, while toms (male turkeys) are ready at 10–12 months.
Mating Ratio: For optimal fertility, maintain a ratio of one tom to every 8–10 hens.
Nesting Boxes: Provide ample nesting boxes filled with clean bedding material to encourage hens to lay their eggs in a designated area.
Incubation: Turkey eggs require approximately 28 days of incubation at a temperature of 99.5°F (37.5°C) and a humidity of 55–60%. You can use an incubator or allow a broody hen to naturally incubate the eggs.
Poult Care: Once the poults hatch, provide them with a warm, draft-free brooder area with supplemental heat and access to fresh water and starter feed.
6. Processing and Meat Handling
If you’re raising turkeys for meat, you’ll need to consider processing and handling the meat properly.
Processing Age: Most heritage breeds are ready for processing between 24-28 weeks, while commercial breeds can reach butchering weight as early as 14-16 weeks.
Processing Methods: You can either process the turkeys yourself or take them to a licensed processing facility. If processing at home, ensure you have the proper equipment and knowledge to humanely slaughter and dress the birds.
Meat Handling: After processing, refrigerate or freeze the turkey meat promptly to maintain freshness and food safety. Properly package and label the meat for storage.
Regulations: Check your local regulations regarding home poultry processing and any requirements for selling or distributing turkey meat.
Growing turkeys can be a rewarding and sustainable way to provide your family with high-quality, locally-sourced meat and eggs. You can reap the rewards of growing these intriguing and delectable birds by adhering to these instructions and customizing them to your unique requirements and conditions.
Remember to prioritize their welfare, provide a safe and comfortable environment, and seek advice from experienced poultry keepers or professionals when needed.