Anyone successfully bred broad breasted turkeys

[Viking84]

ive looked thru the messages on here and see posts where people have used a heritage Tom to breed with a broad breast hen. And some that have second hand info such as knowing someone who has been successful at it. But has anyone on this board actually had success in their own flock of naturally breeding broad breasted Toms and hens

 

[silkie1472]

I’ve never owned these birds, but I have done research on them in my graduate study.

As you know, they are an intended meat bird. It’s in their genetics. However, just like any other breed, they CAN reproduce on their own, but the conditions will have to be met.

My recommendations would be to place the birds on a moderate protein diet at around 22% at maturity to work against the broad breasted genetics that cause such an improper weight distribution — often disabling them from breeding naturally.

If successful, them toms can breed successfully as long as the breast-bone does not affect his stature too much.

Also, know that this breed is not a prolific egg layer either and that the likelihood of them hatching and tearing their own young is slim. Their broad breast easily causes egg breakages, and the genetics just aren’t there as much for broodiness — a common trait of any production breed.

I know that this isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, but hopefully this advice will help you and someone who has done this will surely opt in!