Frequently Asked Questions On Turkey Farming

Frequently Asked Questions On Turkey Farming

20 Frequently Asked Questions on Turkey Farming

1. What are the benefits of turkey farming?
Turkey farming provides multiple benefits, including the production of meat that is high in protein and low in fat. Turkeys are also relatively easy to raise, adaptable to various farming systems, and can be marketed during peak holiday seasons like Thanksgiving and Christmas, leading to higher profits.

2. How much space do turkeys need?
Turkeys require adequate space for proper growth and health:

• Brooder Space: For young poults, provide about 1 square foot per bird.

• Grower Space: Turkeys need 4–5 square feet per bird in enclosed housing.

• Outdoor Space: For free-range turkeys, allocate 10–25 square feet per bird.

3. What do turkeys eat?
Turkeys need a balanced diet to thrive:

• Starter Feed: High-protein feed (28–30%) for poults up to 6–8 weeks.

• Grower Feed: Protein content of 20–24% for young turkeys.

• Finisher Feed: Lower protein (16–18%) with more energy for fattening before market.

• Supplemental greens, grains, and insects can be provided, especially in free-range systems.

4. How long does it take to raise turkeys to market weight?
Turkeys typically reach market weight in 14–20 weeks depending on the breed:

• Hens (Females): Usually weigh 10–12 pounds by 14–16 weeks.

• Toms (Males): Can weigh 20–30 pounds by 18–20 weeks.

5. What are the common breeds of turkeys for farming?
Popular turkey breeds include:

• Broad Breasted White: Favored for commercial meat production due to fast growth.

• Broad Breasted Bronze: Similar to White but with darker feathers.

• Heritage Breeds: Narragansett, Bourbon Red, and Slate are slower-growing but prized for flavor.

6. What type of housing do turkeys need?
Turkeys require housing that is:

• Well-Ventilated: Prevents respiratory diseases.

• Dry and Clean: Avoids dampness that can lead to infections.

• Secure: Protects against predators like foxes, dogs, and hawks.

7. Do turkeys need vaccinations?
Yes, vaccinations can protect turkeys from common diseases such as:

• Fowl Cholera

• Newcastle Disease

• Turkey Rhinotracheitis (TRT)

Consult a local veterinarian to determine the vaccination schedule suitable for your area.

8. How do you manage turkey health?

• Regularly clean and disinfect housing and equipment.

• Provide fresh, clean water daily.

• Monitor turkeys for signs of illness, such as lethargy, abnormal droppings, or poor appetite.

• Isolate sick birds to prevent the spread of disease.

9. What is the best time of year to start turkey farming?
Starting in late winter or early spring allows turkeys to reach market weight by late fall, aligning with high-demand seasons like Thanksgiving.

10. Are turkeys profitable to raise?
Yes, turkeys can be profitable if managed properly. Costs such as feed, housing, and healthcare must be controlled, and marketing during high-demand seasons can significantly increase profits.

11. Can turkeys be raised with other poultry?
It is not recommended to raise turkeys with other poultry like chickens because of the risk of blackhead disease (histomoniasis), which chickens can carry without showing symptoms.

12. What are the challenges of turkey farming?

• Disease Management: Turkeys are prone to respiratory and digestive diseases.

• Feed Costs: Turkeys require high-quality feed, which can be expensive.

• Predation: Turkeys are vulnerable to predators, especially in free-range systems.

• Seasonal Market: Demand is often limited to holidays, requiring strategic planning.

13. How do you process and market turkeys?

• Processing: Turkeys can be processed on-site (if allowed by local regulations) or sent to a processing facility.

• Marketing: Sell directly to consumers, restaurants, or through farmers' markets. Specialty turkeys (organic or heritage breeds) can fetch premium prices.

14. Can turkeys be raised organically?
Yes, turkeys can be raised organically, but this involves:

• Feeding certified organic feed.

• Providing outdoor access for free-ranging.

• Avoiding synthetic medications unless absolutely necessary.

15. How much does it cost to start turkey farming?
Startup costs depend on the scale of farming. Key expenses include:

• Poults (baby turkeys): $3–$10 each.

• Housing and fencing.

• Feed and supplements.

• Healthcare and vaccinations.

A small-scale operation can start with an investment of a few hundred dollars, while commercial farms require significantly more.