Wild turkey poult - friend found, wants me to raise

[Tracyree]

So a friend called and she found a wild turkey poult in her yard. She lives in abneighborhood and thinks a predator dropped it or something as Mom Turkey is no where to be seen. There are no woods or anything like that around.

So. I've raised chickens, but never a turkey.

What do I need to know? Do I need to worry about the poult carrying disease and biosecurity and all? We have TONS of wild turkey on our property, they even hang out right up against the chicken run at times, so I'm thinking brining a little poult in the garage isn't going to expose my hens to anything new.

I have an ecoglo, can I use it with the poult if I raise it up?

I have no idea how old the thing is and haven't seen it yet.

 

[booker81]

First and foremost, contact your state wildlife department/ department of natural resources. In many states, it is illegal to possess wild turkeys of any age, and that law is enforced. If it is illegal, your best bet is to located a licensed wildlife facility.

That said, I've ended up with wild poults from a friend (illegally, but I don't have them now). Never again. They were the most neurotic creatures I've ever had (for a week). I stick with domestic turkey now.

 

[Tracyree]

Thanks. So they finally got a hold of the wildlife folks, took the "turkey" and found out it was a dove. Lol

 

[booker81]

LOL! That really did make me laugh Glad it's taken care of!