Space Question

[SED]

How many Heritage breed turkeys can you put in a 12'X12' run with a 4'X12' coop? Could I possibly be okay keeping 8 hens and 2 toms in it? Thanks, Scott

 

[bigstack]

Well I know that would be GREAT for chickens. and that it is a lil more than the minimums for a chicken, thus a turkey being a lil bigger than a chicke.... I think it should be fine! But im no expert! I have not had turkeys. Mayb some one else will chime in soon.

Good Luck and God Bless!

 

[ivan3]

It is enough space, but a bit more would allow dividing up the run with straw bales (so they can get away from one another when disputes occur), an old cable spool or other distractions (things to do) will cut down on a lot of aggression in a small run.

We had five three toms/two hens (currently two toms, one hen) and the ~15'x20' run is O.K. for five (but will be expanding), your coop size is sufficient.

Main problem is covering run (or clipping wings). The hens, in particular, will sometimes simply ignore 6ft. fencing.

Our `coop':

 

[SED]

What are the normal space requirements for turkeys? I know that chickens are 10 sf each but not sure about turkeys. Thanks everybody!

 

[SED]

Also, is four hens to one tom a good ratio?

 

[arabianequine]

Quote:
I thought chickens space was 3-4 sq ft....maybe that is just sleeping quarters inside run?

Someone will let us know.

 

[the simple life]

Standard chickens require 4 square feet each, bantams can get away with three.

 

[PrinceSandwich]

That is plenty room for 10 turkeys.

 

[chickensducks&agoose]

It's 4.8 square feet in the coop per bird? I thought they needed more than that.

 

[Olive Hill]

The coop will be fine. I, personally, would double the run space plus as much as you can give them. I have three heritage breed (Narragansett) in a temporary run that is 8x8 (21 sq. ft. per bird) and it is NOT enough. I really cannot even begin to imagine keeping them permanently on this space or less. Your measurements will only give your birds 14 sq. ft. per bird. Technically yes, it's probably "enough". But when it comes right down to it, realistically, you're going to have fights, some seriously torn up ground (they dig!) and restless turkeys who want to move around.