The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: Buffy the eggs layer on September 01, 2015, 08:25:41 am

Title: Are all heritage turkeys the same?
Post by: Buffy the eggs layer on September 01, 2015, 08:25:41 am

I have recently seen and advert for lavender turkeys and just wondered if all heritage breeds are pretty much the same in terms of productivity and temperament.


The stag that fathered my bronze poults apparently had to be held back with a broom whenever his Keeper had to enter the pen so I'm hoping his offspring are more personable.


The lavenders that are for sale look lovely but they are a breeding pair and I wondered if buying an adult male might be more tricky than bringing up a male from a chick in terms of trust and respect.


 :thinking:   

Title: Re: Are all heritage turkeys the same?
Post by: Marches Farmer on September 01, 2015, 08:08:33 pm

I've only ever bred Narragansetts.  Always found them very laid back.  Did a stag swap with another breeder a few days ago as we both wanted to introduce new genetics.  New boy appears a bit puzzled by being quarantined but otherwise perfectly friendly.

Title: Re: Are all heritage turkeys the same?
Post by: Buffy the eggs layer on September 02, 2015, 08:36:56 am

Thats reassuring Marches.


Perhaps its how they are raised. I have been doing a fair bit of training with my turkey friends since I moved them too the new coop and they seem to have bonded with me very well. we have practicing leaving the new coop and following me into the wood, then after a while following me back to the new coop for a treat of mealworms.


We have to do a bit of herding now and again but they are very placid, good natured little things who learn quickly with a bit of repitition. Sounds like they should stay that way. :thumbsup:

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