Quick Turkey Question

[helkat]

Hi there! We are thinking of getting turkeys. There are two hens and a tom available.

Is one tom to two hens a good ratio? I know with ducks and chickens there should be a high female to male ratio. Is it the same with turkeys?

If that is the case, maybe we will just get the hens.

Thanks
Helga

 

[ScoobyRoo]

I think that is good. Get all three.

What kind are they?

 

[helkat]

Royal Palms. Are they a nice breed? My husband has been wanting turkeys for awhile.

 

[ScoobyRoo]

Those are on my wish list for next spring! I have a pair of Bourbon Reds and a trio of Black Spanishes (processing those next week). The BR's are pet and so will the RP's if I get some. It is better to have 2 females and 1 male than the other way around. That way the males are not fighting for the lead role.

I don't think the RP's personalities are much different than other heritage breeds.

 

[Marlinchaser]

Royal Palms are good, not as big as those raised for eating, but if just keeping as pets get the trio, and enjoy.

 

[Steve_of_sandspoultry]

Royal Palms are more of an ornamental type turkey. They are very striking, when people come over they notice ours first.

Steve in NC

 

[helkat]

Thanks everyone! We are the proud parents to 3 Royal Palm turkeys, though I really have NO IDEA if they are hens or toms.

I will try to get some pics of them tomorrow!

Thanks!
Helga

 

[chickenannie]

Because the breeding with turkeys is always "hen's choice" it's not a problem to have a 1:2 ration (1 tom to 2 hens) because they will only allow him near when they want him there. Otherwise he hangs back (not at all like rooster!)