Overview

EXPAND AND MAINTAIN A HAPPY BACKYARD FLOCK Compared to other meats, turkey is relatively lean and nutritious. While often the meat of choice on Thanksgiving and Christmas, turkey is a versatile meat that can be eaten any time of the year. Many people are starting to raise their own turkeys. While raising turkeys does not require a lot of time each day, turkeys do require daily care. Before starting a flock of turkeys, it is important to identify your goal. This will dictate the best breed and management system for your flock. The types of turkeys often referred to as breeds are actually varieties of a single breed of turkey. The most common variety grown commercially is the Large White, but there are many other breeds of turkeys to choose from. Turkey poults (young turkeys one day old and older) are more difficult to get started than chicks. Poults need to be raised in a warm, draft-free environment because they are unable to regulate their body temperature for the first 10 days of life. In the brooding area, the temperature should be started at 100 DegreesF, measured two inches above the floor (that is, at the level of the poult). Reduce the temperature by 5 DegreesF each week. A red infrared heat lamp is best to supply the heat needed. The bulb should be suspended at least 18 in. above the floor. The height of the bulb can be adjusted as the temperature needs to change. Wood shavings are the best litter for turkeys. Do not use sawdust because poults may eat it and have digestive problems. The purpose of the litter is to absorb moisture and insulate poults from the cold floor. Any wet litter should be removed and replaced with fresh litter. Do not use newspapers or other slick materials on top of the litter. The paper will become slippery and can cause leg problems. A brooder guard should be used during the first week or two. The brooder guards keep the poults near heat, feed, and water. Feed and water should be available to the growing turkeys at all times. Some young turkeys have trouble finding the feed and water, resulting in death from starve out. To ensure that your poults find the feed and water, it is best to spend some time with them for the first day or so. Dipping their beaks in the water helps to teach them where the water is located. Use a small one-gallon chick waterer. Open dishes or pans are not recommended because poults may fall in, get chilled, and die. Bright-colored marbles may help to attract the poults to the water. Whether the turkeys are for home consumption or for sale, you must make plans for processing, whether that is through home processing or custom processing. Ready to discover more about raising turkey? Grab a Copy of This Book Now

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