Falling in love...

[pinusresinosa]

I've read here more than once that if you're raising turkeys for the table to not get too attached to them. I'm trying hard- we have two whites, our first two turkeys ever, that we're raising for slaughter and I am falling in love with them. The way they chirp, the way they look at you and look at things, the way they're sort of more confident than chicks yet stupidly get lost easily and call for you to help them- then they see you and come running for you. That little nobby thing on their heads is too much. I love their big gaping ugly mouths when they yawn. Granted, I've only had mine for a few weeks now but I'm learning why so many people love their turkeys. So this has me thinking... what's a good breed to start with for breeding pets and table? I'm reading that burbon reds are supposed to be the best? Do turkeys get aggressive as they age? How do turkeys fare in extremely cold winter weather (we get actual temps here of -40 sometimes).

Thank you!

 

[feedman77]

Bourbons are good breed for what you are looking for.

Sometimes a little too curious on what you are doing.

As far as agression it all depends how they are raised. If raised right will be as gentle as any pet

There are exceptions to that just like with any animal. Toms may get somewhat agressive during mating season. Out of all the toms I have only one got a little agressive this spring.

Any heritage breed will do what you want. Pick out a breed that appeals to you and enjoy them.

I have a few varities. Mg personal favorite is the royal palm. Smaller body bird but elegant to look at.

 

[silkielover88]

I agree with the royal Palm! As for the cold temps, as long as they have a shelter they will do fine. It gets to -20 here sometimes and we put in a heat light to keep the frost bite away.

As for food, broad breasted white, don't handle them much, and it's better if you have you're pets raised separate from the meat birds. Less chance you will get attached. I use that trick when raising meat chickens

 

[Weehopper]

My brother in law gave me a trio of year old Naragansette turkeys. They are a heritage breed, and I thought they were great. Really liked them. However, my rooster did not take to the Tom, and drove him out after a coyote had taken one of the hen's. I guess it was just too much stress. He and the remaining hen went over the fence and down the road. They did come back to recharge after two weeks, but after a few days here, they left again. The rooster never bothered them the second time. Go figure...I never even intended to eat them. Anyway, it is s very nice breed, and very pretty, too.