Need help, wife wants Turkeys!

[tnchicken]

My wife wants to start a self sustaining flock and I would prefer something for meat only if we get any. Hence, she is wanting heritage and me probably a "one and done" broad breasted variety. Any help would be appreciated and I have a few specific questions.


What breed do you prefer? and which hatchery do you prefer?
How long to grow out to a

 

[Bantimna]

I don't know anything about Turks. but what about the Bronze?

 

[lauralou]

Are the broad breasted birds capable of breeding naturally?

 

[natrgatr]

If you want a self-sustaining flock, you will need a heritage turkey. Broad-breasted can't breed normally.

 

[Pumpkinpup]

Quote:
This is right. The broad breasted birds are not self breeders so if you plan to have a self sustaining flock I highly suggest heritage bronze or royal palms. If you want something a bit more pleasing to the eye then go with Sweetgrass or narragansett turkeys

All are quite nice and produce good meat birds.

 

[onthespot]

Plus, you can't get just one, it will be lonely and bond to you and then you won't be able to eat it. Get at least three.

 

[Countrywife]

well, for heaven sake, if the wife wants turkeys, get her turkeys!

 

[Pumpkinpup]

I also would say suggest you buy some poults from a local grower and not a hatchery. You will eliminat alot of stress on the birds and cut down on potential problems that way.

 

[TxCritter]

Is it just the broad breasted breeds that cannot breed naturally?

 

[hunter1hall]

I have three breeds and have several mutts I just hatched. If you think chickens were addictive........watch out. Turkeys are in my opinion a lot more interesting than chickens. I have both, and love both, but the turkeys are just fabulous. As far as breeds, my favorite thus far is the narragansette. I have bronze and bourbon reds as well. Im wanting some sweetgrass and some tiger bronzes. Good luck.