Best turkey to get?

[becky3086]

I want to raise turkeys but I would like to have one that can reproduce on its own but still makes decent meat. What is the best choice in your opinion?

 

[hatchaholic]

You should look into the heritage turkeys. We have narragansetts, but there are several different ones to choose from. They all reproduce naturally and, according to many blind taste tests, taste much better than the commercial ones.

 

[becky3086]

That is what I am wanting to know. I have looked at them but couldn't tell anything about how they tasted from their description. Thanks.

 

[Pumpkinpup]

If you want turkeys for meat birds, get some of the broad breasted whites or Beltsville whites. They were bred specifically for that.

 

[Struttn1]

Bourbon Reds would probably give you what you are looking for. Stay away from the BB breeds if you want them to reproduce.

 

[BeakSanctuary]

Can anyone speak to the taste worthiness of the White Holland? I really have no plans to kill any of mine for meat or to raise any others for that at this time, but I was curious about the reputation. They're very friendly, at least my oldest jake is. He will come from a far distance if he sees me. Makes me feel "loved", lol.

 

[Struttn1]

I know nothing about the Hollands.

 

[chickenannie]

This was all discussed in a recent thread: read here (and do a search, these older threads will tell you a lot).

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=92240

 

[BeakSanctuary]

Thanks! Going there directly!

Don't miss the turkey humor going on in the Me, My Chickens, My Family thread, either, it will make you laugh 'til you cry.

 

[BeakSanctuary]

IE on about the third page back entitled "For the The1Much - turkey attack".