Should turkeys roost outside at night?

[SIMZ]

We're new to turkeys and have 3 BBB and 6 Midget Whites that are about 3 months old. At dusk they climb onto the top of the coop to roost and some roost on saw-horses in the run. We always round them up and put them in the coop, but wondered if they can stay out?

Note: I wouldn't consider letting my chickens stay out and wouldn't expect to have any the next morning if I did. Would the same be true with the turkeys? Thanks!

 

[Cole D]

My turkeys roost outside and I haven't had a problem with it. It all depends on weather or not you have a lot of predators where you live.

 

[SIMZ]

What could get them?

Coyotes - we have them around but they couldn't get on the roof, right?

Owls- the Midget Whites are still pretty light

Weasels -- will they kill turkeys like they will chickens?

Racoons - will they also kill turkeys like they will chickens?

Thanks!

 

[kuntrygirl]

My turkeys roost outside and I haven't had a problem with it. It all depends on weather or not you have a lot of predators where you live.

Same here. Depends on the predators in your area. I don't have any predators that would take out my turkeys, so they are allowed to roost in the trees and on top of the chicken house. They are 6 feet up high or higher.

 

[Cole D]

Sims, I think the only problems you will have are the raccoons(I don't know if weasels can climb) so might have to kill some of the raccoons if any come to try to eat them. Or you could get guardian dogs if that is an option. I think they are one of the reasons we don't have problems with predators.