Turkey rubbing off feathers

[Turkey Grandma]

I recently inherited two adult turkeys, a tom and a hen.

I spent 50 years scared of chickens and feel totally out of depth with these turkeys but love them!!

it's my understanding the tom spent some time in the house with his old family which is causing problems now.

I've fenced about a quarter acre for them and am trying to include fun and interesting things for them in their turkey kingdom but the tom spends all day rubbing along the fence and now has a bald spot on his chest.

Any idea on how I can correct this behavior? I really don't want him living on the deck

 

[WoDia]

Your turkey is stressed. It’ll take him some time to get accustomed to his new home. Since the hen is with him, he will likely settle down eventually and get more comfortable on your property. Continue to offer distractions.

Tagging a few friends who also raise turkeys:

@MamaPoult
@Huntmaster

 

[Turkey Grandma]

Thank you!

Are there any distractions you would recommend? Would a picture of their kingdom help?

I really appreciate your time. I've struggled finding good resources on turkeys. Now we have 14 babies so I'm anxious to learn all I can.

 

[WoDia]

You’re very welcome. I’ll help all I can. Photos are helpful. Did the previous owners give you any tips to help transition them? Mimicking some of their routine could help to calm him. For instance… giving the same types of treats. It’s also about building trust, and it will take some time. He will calm down. As long as he’s not hurting his chest where the feathers are now gone, it’s all about patience. I bought an adult Red Bourbon pair once. They had been accustomed to life in a small enclosure. It took a lot of time and effort to get them used to their new home with me. But, they ultimately calmed down and enjoyed their new home… and the hen hatched a lot of beautiful poults.

 

[Turkey Grandma]

I hope he does transition. He's the coolest guy and I don't want him stressed.

Unfortunately I've never had a conversation with precious owners. They moved and didn't bother

 

[Turkey Grandma]

Darn it. They left their turkeys behind. Truly unbelievable.

Treats are a great idea. Maybe I can strategically place

I've added the picture in hope for ideas!

Thank you again!

 

[Turkey Grandma]

There is a wind spinner in the tree you can't see and a tin decoration hanging on the fence

 

[WoDia]

They have a very nice new home. He’s going to learn to love it there. Offer those treats. That should help a lot. If he won’t take to that at first, try working with the hen. If he sees her finding the treats, he will probably join in. Foraging around their yard will help distract him. Is that a dust bath area in the back corner? He’ll love it when he finds that. You’re doing a great job with them. Beautiful turkey in your photo. So wonderful to have you take them in. Tag me anytime. Hopefully others will add their insight soon as well.

 

[aart]

@R2elk

 

[Turkey Grandma]

They have a very nice new home. He’s going to learn to love it there. Offer those treats. That should help a lot. If he won’t take to that at first, try working with the hen. If he sees her finding the treats, he will probably join in. Foraging around their yard will help distract him. Is that a dust bath area in the back corner? He’ll love it when he finds that. You’re doing a great job with them. Beautiful turkey in your photo. So wonderful to have you take them in. Tag me anytime. Hopefully others will add their insight soon as well.

Thank you very much! Hopefully he grows to love it.

I'm definitely teying the treat idea!

There is a turkey bath in the back corner and another you can't see. It is an effort to keep momma out of the garden

I really appreciate your help and time