Turkey feather pulling/not nice looking

[BorealRanch]

I've been reading about black oil sunflower seeds. I'm not sure if my local feed store carries them at a reasonable price but I was wondering if anyone has put one of these out for their mixed flock and what the response was? I'm thinking the birds would have fun with it wouldn't they?? I know it's intended for wild birds but still...

 

[R2elk]

I've been reading about black oil sunflower seeds. I'm not sure if my local feed store carries them at a reasonable price but I was wondering if anyone has put one of these out for their mixed flock and what the response was? I'm thinking the birds would have fun with it wouldn't they?? I know it's intended for wild birds but still...

BOSS (black oil sunflower seeds) is a great source of methionine which is helpful for feather growth. The trouble with BOSS is that it is also a low protein and high fat food. Feeding BOSS is fine as long as you use it as a treat. All treats combined should not amount to more than 10% of the total diet.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

My first batch we were a bit liberal with the boss because turkeys love it. What happened was the birds put on too much fat. They were very greasy when butchered, and I lost one hen to a prolapse. We have since cut way back on them and things are better. So go easy on the boss.

 

[Noellereagan]

Wait. Mine were hatched June 6th and are broad breasted. I have them on a 15% and they're doing great. Mine are pets so I'm trying to avoid them getting bigger. If you're processing them you may want to keep it that high but not sure about breeders or heritage birds. @TurkeyTimes @R2elk

 

[Noellereagan]

Sorry. Didn't see r2 already chimed in!

 

[BorealRanch]

Wait. Mine were hatched June 6th and are broad breasted. I have them on a 15% and they're doing great. Mine are pets so I'm trying to avoid them getting bigger. If you're processing them you may want to keep it that high but not sure about breeders or heritage birds. @TurkeyTimes @R2elk

These turkeys arnt going to be for processing. They are a breeding trio hatched may 14. We have had bad weather for what feels like a month or more... rain rain and more rain so maybe that has something to do with it? They have been sleeping in the tractor we started them in until last night so maybe being able to dry out all the way will help too?