Information & Advice RE: Raising Turkeys (Specifically RP's)

[FuzzyButtz]

Hi All,



I'm new here but within the next month or so, my hubby and I are building an additional coop/run to accommodate a few Royal Palms. The idea is to get a Tom and 2 Hens, with the results eventually being destined for the freezer. Our Chicken breeder also produces these RP's, so we will be getting them from her. While I trust and like her immensely, I would like an unbiased opinion from other experienced Turkey owners.



I understand the risk of Blackhead, which is why they will have an entirely different coop and run.



Here's a short (lol) list of questions I've had going through my mind lately..

1. Roughly how much room will each RP need in the coop, and in their run (until I trust them enough to free range)
2. At what age, generally, do you find sufficient for butchering?
3. I realize they need additional protein, but can they eat regular layers food from the local farm supply store, or will they require something specific for Turkeys?
4. Do you find they do better free ranging, rather than in a coop/run (in terms of meat)?
5. In terms of eating the eggs, can you eat a fertilized egg like a Chickens, provided it's fresh?
6. Again, in terms of eggs... are they good to eat in general?

Thanks in advance, everyone

 

[Whittni]

1 . Roughly how much room will each RP need in the coop, and in their run (until I trust them enough to free range)
-I would estimate 5 square feet per bird and your run 6ft tall and enclosed.


2. At what age, generally, do you find sufficient for butchering?
-About 6 months.


3. I realize they need additional protein, but can they eat regular layers food from the local farm supply store, or will they require something specific for Turkeys?
-They can but turkeys eat SO much food, its not worth feeding them hen food. Stick to turkey food for sure. They aren't feed to butcher efficient either.


4. Do you find they do better free ranging, rather than in a coop/run (in terms of meat)?
-You are only raising three, free range is fine but to fatten them up enclosed and lots and lots of fatty feed.


5. In terms of eating the eggs, can you eat a fertilized egg like a Chickens, provided it's fresh?
-Yep.


6. Again, in terms of eggs... are they good to eat in general?
-Ehh, its your personal taste whether you like them or not. It's also hard to find their nests if you let them loose.