When to let turkeys free-range?

[gatrapper]

Hey Y'all,

Moved our 8 week old turkeys outdoors 5 days ago. Is it safe to let them out without worrying about them not returning to the coop at night, or should I wait longer?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

It's best to start slow and let them range when you can watch them initially, so you can see how brave they are. I personally don't free range any of my turkeys unless I'm home. They have a way of finding trouble sometimes.

 

[FarmerMac]

I let mine free range when I am home. When they are little and are able to walk, I watch the hens take the babies out . I herd them back in the pen where they have food and water. After a few times, they hen and babies get the idea to get back home. Turkeys are on the move looking for bugs and food so they may walk far from your house. If there are predators, you may lose some of them. I have lost cnumerous hickens and tukeys to predators.