As the turkeys develop it is essential they are given an adequate diet. Proprietary feeds are very good these days and there are specific formulations for turkeys. Between 5-6 weeks the poults should be moved onto turkey grower pellets. Some manufacturers do make turkey rearer pellets, which move towards the grower formulation but in a smaller pelleted form. However, most poults do managed the change from starter crumb to grower pellets quite well. The turkey grower pellets take the poults through their main growing period until around 16 -17 weeks when they should be put on either turkey finisher pellets or turkey breeder pellets. The finisher pellets help to 'finish' the birds ready for the table by putting on weight and conditioning the flesh. The turkey breeder pellets on the other hand prepare the birds for a natural lifecycle and with added calcium and vitamins gear the birds up for egg production - which can be used for either eating or hatching.
Pellets are fed to the turkeys in the morning, as they are easily and quickly digested. In the afternoon give them some wheat but introduce this after 12 weeks because before then the digestive system has not developed sufficiently to accommodate hard cereals.
Interesting environment
Wheat does not have the nutrition of formulated pellets but does take longer to go through the system and will keep the birds satisfied overnight. A few sunflower seeds and naked oats added to the second feed of the day will add interest and both are good for the birds.
Most small flocks reared for the Christmas market are free-range but should you house them completely, or towards the end of their maturing, some added treats would be appreciated and help to give them a more interesting environment. Cabbages or Brussels sprout tops hung up for them to peck would be immensely popular. This will also detract from any social squabbles that could take place and prevent boredom. Other goodies, such as apples, fallen plums or sweet corn would be pounced upon
Occasionally, even in the best living conditions, turkeys can get sick. One of the most common problems is Mycoplasma, which is a respiratory disease that causes sinusitis, foaming in the eye, rattly breathing and discharge from the nostrils. It is important to isolate any bird which such symptoms and the recommended treatment is 1ml of Tylan 200 injected into the breast muscle ever 48 hours. The turkey requires five doses and may even need a further course if the disease hasn't fully cleared. Tylan 200 is a prescription only medicine that is obtainable via a veterinary practice. It is not licensed for poultry but maybe used on recommendation from a veterinary surgeon for a specific treatment.
Remember to worm
Topic: Turkey finishers pellets (Read 6119 times)
