BBW or no?

[R2elk]

Also, if I'm mistaken regarding the longevity / health of BBW, someone please correct me.

BB turkeys were developed to be processed for meat by the time they are 6 months old at the most.

If they don't get a proper turkey or game bird starter for at least the first 4 weeks they are prone to leg and other health issues.

With proper nutrition as adults, such as Purina's Game Bird maintenance (12.5% protein) and exercise, they can live longer. Hens have a better chance of living longer as long as they aren't kept with toms.

I am aware of one hen that lived to be 9 years old. Any over 3 years are doing good.

 

[Darthdame]

Thank you all for the info. Yeah, we paid $17.99 for them as poults marked as heritage breeds. Sign said Midget White or White Holland. We were familiar with the White Holland and purchased them. Ever since then, I've researched as much as I can and everyone says they're likely BBW. We were afraid of that. They're pretty active currently. They free range with my chickens daily and are put up at night. The tom is more of a loner. He stays with the hen some, but usually on his own. We aren't looking to breed them. Just luck had it they ended up a tom and a hen. I've read males can kill a female when trying to breed if they're bbw. We're new to all this and are aware it could happen. Sucks that it has, but as long as they seem healthy and happy and are having no problems, we will keep them as pets. Thank you all for the information. I'll definitely avoid tractor supply for anything other than chicks in the future. We were just sad losing the neighbors turkey that we loved dearly and thought it was a sign when we saw these. (I honestly fought for geese harder, but hubby said NOOOOO to that one ) I appreciate all the responses and information. Thank you, again.