Are turkeys not an option for me?

[jdywntr]

I was thinking of getting some poults in the spring. I have chickens and they have been on a good portion of the property at one time or another. My landlord, who lived on this property about 5 years ago, just told me that when he had turkeys here, for 3 years in a row he lost 11-12 of 15 to blackhead disease each year. Are turkeys not going to be an option for me?

 

[Celie]

I wouldn't even try, if there was a case of Blackhead there before, especially if you also have chickens!

 

[ProfTi]

Did the chickens have free range? As I understand it, it is the worms that carry the Blackhead. People say you can get by with not having them on the same exact ground as chickens, but perhaps another pen? I have chickens with my turkeys and have had no problem. Though this is because there have never been chickens here aside from mine. I would hate to loose my Turks. They are the best pet's! Good luck.

 

[jdywntr]

Yes, the chickens that I have and that used to be here free ranged. Mine not so much anymore until I can get the coyote or our LGD grows.
My landlord said he spoke with a well respected breeder (don't know who) that said here in AL our winters don't get cold enough to kill off the protazoa (?) that carries blackhead and that it is very common. He recommended raised coops and runs for 6 months but I don't want to do that.