Free Range Turkeys

[brodysam]

I have two bronze turkey poults and was wondering if they free range alright. They are currently in pens, but when they are older(say hawk-proof) I'd like to let them out in the pasture. We have a guard donkey and the pasture is fenced with electric wire. I was thinking of letting them range in the day and putting them up at night.

Another concern is we have lots of wild turkeys. I've never seen them in the pasture or near it, they're usually further down the road. Will my bronzes draw them in? I don't want disease to spread between them.

 

[ohiofarmgirl]

we free range our Bourbon Red and BBW's with no problem! i think they say to wait until they are about 8 weeks old to put them outside - then gradually introduce them in a shaded area with several feeders/waterers (so they can find them). ours do great and love it - very easy to herd up and bring inside to roost.

we have a ton of wild turkeys and much to the chagrin of our neighbors who want to hunt them... our turks have NOT called any in.

good luck! you will love them