Growing too fast!

[TamTurkey]

For my son's FFA project we decided to try our hand at raising Turkeys. One problem, they ordered all the turkeys late and so we will be showing 12 week old Turkeys!!! Although it is fair as everyone will be showing at the same age. I am afraid that speeding up it's growth process will be cruel and make for an unhealthy turkey. Any suggestions?

 

[TamTurkey]

And please don't suggest any hormones we won't do that to our animals

 

[PekinBantam]

Well you might want to check your local feed store for protein rich turkey food... I really don't know what else to try, sorry...

 

[KrisH]

here is what we use for our turkeys

http://www.wildlife.purinamills.com/products/ECMD2-0017382.aspx

Purina game bird startina 30%

RobertH

And I have Never read anyone recommend hormones on any back yard chickens thread. has anyone?

 

[TamTurkey]

I did not mean to offend by any means. I have been asking locally and people are saying horrible things with hormones and Paylean or however you spell it. No I haven't seen anyone suggest hormones on this site and I think I read at least half of all the Turkey posts yesterday . Which is WHY I decided to join; everyone here seems to actually care what they feed and how they treat their animals whether they be for meat or pets. Thank you for your time and sharing.

 

[kuntrygirl]

I agree with KrisH. Purina Game Bird Startena 30% is the way to go. That is what my poults eat and mine are bigger, healthier and all around great show bird compared to others in my area who use a feed with less protein (and people in my area will tell anyone that). In addition, if you can let them free range so that they can eat some grass, bugs etc. would be a great idea as well.

Good Luck. Keep us posted on the project.

 

[Scottingitup]

Protein! protein! I fed 30% starena and then switch to a local mills 28% - my birds are huge this year compared to last year! Do this for the first 12 weeks and then switch to a 20% finisher feed.

 

[TamTurkey]

Sounds like a plan but we have to SHOW at 12 weeks so when do you think I should put them on the finisher?

 

[KrisH]

Sounds like a plan but we have to SHOW at 12 weeks so when do you think I should put them on the finisher?

Keeping on startina a couple extra weeks won't make a difference, Polish off the open bag before changing to finisher. you will probably go through several bags, but TALK with the people at the feed store and be ready with the food a week or two before you get the birds. not all feed stores keep it year round. and it should be fresh, Don't get too much to start with.

I presume you have not had turkeys before?

RobertH

 

[TamTurkey]

You Presume right! I get the birds next week I will let y'all know the progress thank you so much for your help