Turkeys are much bigger than chickens and therefore would seem to be unlikely as companion animals. Nonetheless, they are becoming ever more popular as outdoor pets. Here are some reasons why turkeys make good pets:
Absolutely! Turkeys can make amazing pets, and they’re a lot more fun and rewarding than you might think In this article, we’ll dive into the world of turkey pet ownership, exploring the joys of having these unique feathered friends in your life
Why Turkeys Make Great Pets:
- Full of Personality: Turkeys have distinct personalities, and watching their antics can be endlessly entertaining. From their funny dances to their protective instincts, they’ll bring a unique charm to your life.
- Low-Maintenance: Contrary to popular belief, turkeys are relatively low-maintenance pets. They don’t require constant attention like some other animals, and their care needs are fairly straightforward.
- Beautiful Creatures: Turkeys are truly beautiful birds, with vibrant feathers and striking features. Their presence adds a touch of elegance and grace to your property.
- Educational Experience: Having turkeys as pets can be a wonderful educational experience for both children and adults. You’ll learn about their fascinating behaviors, care requirements, and unique history.
- Delicious Eggs: If you choose to have female turkeys (hens), you’ll be rewarded with delicious, nutritious eggs. These eggs are larger and richer than chicken eggs, offering a delightful culinary treat.
Things to Consider Before Getting a Turkey as a Pet:
- Space Requirements: Turkeys need ample space to roam and explore. Ensure you have a spacious yard or enclosure that can comfortably accommodate their needs.
- Predator Protection: Like any poultry, turkeys are vulnerable to predators. Make sure their enclosure is secure and provides adequate protection from foxes, coyotes, and other potential threats.
- Nutritional Needs: Turkeys have specific dietary requirements. Provide them with a balanced diet that includes high-quality feed, fresh fruits and vegetables, and access to pasture or range grass.
- Health Concerns: Like all animals, turkeys are susceptible to certain health issues. Regularly monitor their health, and consult a veterinarian for any concerns or preventive care.
Tips for Raising Turkeys as Pets:
- Start with Poults: If you’re new to turkey care, it’s best to start with young turkeys (poults). They’re easier to tame and handle, and you’ll be able to bond with them from an early age.
- Socialization is Key: Turkeys are social creatures, so ensure they have regular interaction with you and other members of your family. This will help them become well-adjusted and friendly pets.
- Provide Enrichment: Keep your turkeys entertained and engaged by providing them with enrichment opportunities. This could include toys, obstacles, and access to a variety of foraging areas.
- Create a Comfortable Home: Ensure your turkeys have a comfortable and secure coop or barn that protects them from the elements and provides a safe haven for sleeping and nesting.
Additional Resources:
- Azure Farm Life: https://www.azurefarmlife.com/farm-blog/raising-turkeys-as-pets
- YouTube Video on Raising Turkeys as Pets: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=DN3MyaVePIY
If you’re looking for a unique, rewarding, and entertaining pet, then turkeys might just be the perfect choice for you. With their charming personalities, low-maintenance care, and fascinating behaviors, they’ll bring joy, laughter, and a touch of the extraordinary to your life. So, why not consider saying “yes” to turkeys and welcoming these feathered friends into your home?
Why Turkeys Make Good Pets
Turkeys make excellent pets for many of the same reasons that people own cats or dogs. Turkeys are inquisitive, docile, friendly, and even affectionate. They will follow you around like a dog, and love to sit still while you cuddle and stroke.
One reason turkeys bond so readily to people, and especially kids, is that they are social creatures. A single turkey doesn’t like to be alone. Not only can it get along with other turkeys in the barnyard, but it can also get along with goats, sheep, guinea fowl, and chickens (see keeping turkeys with chickens).
A full-grown turkey is a low maintenance bird. Compared to a chicken, a mature turkey tends to be less delicate and more hale and hardy.
Turkeys are not only entertaining, but they also like to be entertained. For instance, turkeys like to listen to music.
Disadvantages to Keeping a Pet Turkey
Keeping a pet turkey is not without a few disadvantages, starting when the bird is young. A turkey poult requires careful attention in the brooder until it reaches about 8 weeks of age. However, if you give a young turkey more time, it will form a strong bond with you and make a wonderful pet.
Once grown, a turkey can be noisy. A tom turkey’s gobble is one of the loudest sounds turkeys make. Turkeys also cackle, cluck, and yelp. Depending on wind and other weather conditions, these sounds can carry quite a distance.
Turkeys are big birds. They scratch the ground, like chickens do, only more so, because they’re bigger. And because of their larger size, they need more space to exercise and forage.
A good size yard for a pet turkey is 90 square feet. Because younger and smaller breeds of turkeys can fly, they may require a high fence or have their wings clipped. Ideal protection from the wind, rain, and cold is a six-by-eight-foot shelter that can accommodate multiple turkeys.
Keeping turkeys may be illegal where you live. Check that out before you decide.
Do Turkeys make good pets?
FAQ
Can you keep one turkey as a pet?
Do turkeys like to be petted?
Will pet turkeys fly away?
Can you domesticate a turkey?
Should you get a Turkey as a pet?
When you plan on getting a turkey as a pet, you should also know that the feed bill will be substantial. A turkey eats a lot more than a chicken does. Most turkey pellets are high protein, which means they have a bigger price tag too.
Should you add a pet turkey to your family?
If you are considering adding a pet turkey to your family, here are 5 things to know! Each turkey is unique and some are more vocal than others. Male turkeys gobble (especially during mating season) while females make a high-pitched chirping noise. Our turkey gets especially noisy when it’s almost meal time.
Can you raise a Turkey as a pet?
Whether you’re raising turkeys or turkey chicks, it’s important that you don’t have any of your natural predators around. Cats and dogs are bad idea if you’re planning on raising turkeys. Turkeys are popular as pets these days. You need to consider one thing, though – when you have a turkey as a pet, you no longer relish turkey for Thanksgiving.
Can wild turkeys be kept as pets?
Wild turkeys should not be kept as pets. Instead there are some half wild ones known as heritage turkeys which are more suitable. Turkeys are friendlier than chickens but scratch more and make more mess because they are bigger. References.