Here is a description of Beltsville Whites - taken from the American Livestock Breed Conservancy...they are on the critical list and a Great bird for the small homestead.
"Young Beltsville turkey hens weigh 10 pounds and young toms weigh 17 pounds. The plumage is white, with the head red to bluish white. The beard is black, the beak is horn colored, and the eyes are dark brown. Shanks and toes are pinkish white."
"Today the Beltsville Small White is quite rare and primarily raised by few exhibition breeders. Research flocks exist at both the Iowa State University and the University of Guelph, however, public access to these flocks is almost non-existent. In recent years there has been a revival of interest in this variety. Efforts are underway to locate and conserve any remnant flocks in the United States and Canada."
I spend a lot of time with my birds - they are free ranging, well fed and very fun to have around. If you are thinking about turkeys - please consider a rare or heritage variety!
