Turkeys can make excellent pets, but they are most commonly found as a part of a homestead. They are capable of a wide range of emotional attachments.
Many owners claim that their turkey acts more like a dog than their pups do. What they mean is that their bird is faithful and friendly, following people around the yard like a shadow.
It is always important to remember that all animals, even those within the same species, are unique. The same goes for turkeys. Toms, or male turkeys, can become quite territorial. That said, more often than not, domesticated turkeys are quite docile.
Turkeys as a Valuable Part of a Homestead
Turkeys are often raised on homesteads and farms as a source of meat. Therefore, it is not common for them to be kept exclusively for their pet-like characteristics. However, it does happen because they tend to be quite friendly and lovable.
These birds tend to be cleaner animals than chickens because they don’t commonly have the instinct to scratch all the time. They prefer to keep a clean environment around them. They often choose distinct places for going to the bathroom, eating, and sleeping.
Turkeys are also much larger than chickens and produce different types of meat. They contain both white and dark meat, with a distinctive taste compared to chicken. If you raise them yourself and give them plenty of space to live and a variety of healthy food, you may notice that they taste better than any store-bought turkey.
Turkeys as Pets for Children
You might decide to keep certain turkeys as pets for your kids. Since these birds are so docile and loving, they make excellent pets for children. They like to play and are more resilient than smaller, delicate birds like chickens.
Once your turkey has bonded with their family, they will enjoy spending time around you. That is why they tend to follow you around the yard while you do chores.
Difficulties of Owning Turkeys as Pets
Turkeys might be lovable and bond quickly with humans, but there are still cons that you should consider before adopting them as pets.
The primary con is that turkeys need a great deal of space because they are big birds. Even as a pet, they don’t function the same way that an indoor dog does. A turkey needs more than a coop and a little nesting box. Instead, you should house them in a large shed, a recycled dog house, or a small barn. The more space that you give them to roost and wander, the healthier and happier they will be.
Another major con of owning a turkey as a pet is their feeding habits. They need to get plenty of higher-protein feed, like what you would feed game birds. If they don’t, they will not be able to maintain their weight.
If you are raising breeding pairs, though, you can feed them a lower-protein feed for maintenance while breeding.
Summary
As long as you have enough space and love to give them, keeping a turkey as a pet should be an all-around rewarding experience. They need plenty of food and attention, but they will give you plenty of love in return.
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Featured Image Credit by: Pixabay
2 Responses
what’s the best feed for turkeys
Hello Edyrose,
thank you for your question. The ideal feed for turkeys varies based on their age and purpose, whether for meat production, breeding, or as pets. Young turkeys, in particular, require a high-protein diet to support their rapid growth and overall health. Since no single feed suits all turkeys or life stages, it’s best to consult a veterinarian who can recommend the most appropriate diet for your bird’s specific needs.
Hope this helps.