What is the best way to raise 4-H meat turkeys?
Question by ridingnslidin’: What is the best way to raise 4-H meat turkeys?
So, I am raising meat turkeys for the first time in 4-H, and I want to know from some of you veterans what the best way to get meat on them and keep them healthy. I have raised broilers before, and I understand that turkeys aren’t too different, but they are pretty delicate! So what are some good and responsible ways to add meat and weight to your bird as well as keep it alive and thriving? I don’t want any ‘weight on quick’ methods like supplements or drugs since the bird will be checked throughly at fair before it is marketed. Any particular feeds that you have found helpful and useful, and also how to house them. My poultry leader suggested leaving them outside in a small run during the day so that they build muscle and stay healthy, but not too large so that they would manage to hurt or damage themselves. Anything you guys got for me is great!
Thanks so much!
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One Response to What is the best way to raise 4-H meat turkeys?
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You pretty much have it spot on with what you are doing. We raised Pearl turkeys and had them in a dog run. It had an enclosure in it, and they would come out during the day and peck around at the grass under the wire and eat and we would socialize them.
At night they would go into the “doghouse” style enclosure and roost. Best way to beef them up is to feed a high protein mix, really similar to what you fed your broilers. Make sure you have rolled corn in there….
It’s been a long time since I’ve had birds, but I hope this answer does you some good. You might also get onto some Poultry Clubs’ webpages and talk turkey (pun intended) with some people who raise turkeys to show.
chasingyouolds
May 18, 2012 at 1:41 pm