Turkey farming is a rewarding and potentially profitable agricultural venture that is gaining popularity among small-scale farmers. With increasing demand for turkey meat during holidays and year-round interest in organic and free-range poultry, backyard turkey farming can offer sustainable food production and a steady income. In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices, setup costs, and strategies for running a successful small-scale turkey farming business.
Why Choose Turkey Farming?
- High Market Demand
- Turkey is a popular choice for festive meals, particularly around Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Demand for organic, free-range turkey is on the rise in health-conscious markets.
- Profit Potential
- Turkeys typically sell at a higher price per pound compared to chickens.
- One mature turkey can sell for $50–$150 depending on its size and market.
- Sustainable Food Production
- Turkeys are excellent foragers and can thrive on a mix of natural and supplemental feed.
- Scalability
- Small-scale turkey farming requires minimal space and resources, making it ideal for beginners.
Costs of Starting a Small-Scale Turkey Farm
Initial Setup Costs
- Turkey Poults (Baby Turkeys):
- Prices range from $6–$15 each depending on breed and supplier.
- Start with 10–20 poults for a manageable flock.
- Housing and Shelters:
- Basic shelters or converted chicken coops: $200–$500.
- Free-range setups may only require fencing and roosting areas: $100–$300.
- Fencing:
- Protect turkeys from predators with sturdy wire fencing.
- Cost: $50–$150 for a small yard or run.
- Feeders and Waterers:
- Basic equipment costs $30–$60.
- Automatic systems: $100–$200 for convenience.
- Bedding Material:
- Straw, wood shavings, or hay: $20–$50 per month.
Recurring Costs
- Feed:
- Turkeys require a high-protein starter feed (28–30%) for the first 6–8 weeks, transitioning to a grower feed (20–24%).
- Estimated monthly feed cost: $20–$50 per turkey, depending on flock size.
- Healthcare and Vaccination:
- Deworming, vaccines, and occasional vet visits: $50–$150 per year.
- Utilities:
- Heating for poults and lighting during winter: $10–$30/month.
Step-by-Step Guide to Small-Scale Turkey Farming
Step 1: Select the Right Breed
Different breeds cater to varying goals:
- Broad Breasted White: Ideal for commercial meat production; grows quickly and yields a high meat-to-bone ratio.
- Heritage Breeds (e.g., Narragansett, Bourbon Red): Slower-growing but prized for their flavor and ability to reproduce naturally.
- Broad Breasted Bronze: Combines fast growth with a traditional appearance, suitable for both meat and aesthetic appeal.
Step 2: Create an Optimal Environment
- Housing:
- Turkeys need 4–5 square feet per bird in a shelter and 10–15 square feet per bird in outdoor space.
- Include roosting poles, as turkeys prefer to perch at night.
- Fencing:
- Install fencing at least 4–6 feet high to keep turkeys contained and protect them from predators.
- Temperature Control:
- Poults require a brooder with a consistent temperature of 95°F during the first week, reducing by 5°F weekly.
- Ventilation:
- Ensure proper airflow to prevent respiratory issues, especially in enclosed coops.
Step 3: Feed and Nutrition
- Starter Feed:
- High-protein crumble (28–30%) for the first 6–8 weeks ensures healthy growth.
- Grower Feed:
- Transition to a grower feed with 20–24% protein until turkeys are market-ready.
- Foraging:
- Allow turkeys to forage for grasses, insects, and grains to supplement their diet and reduce feed costs.
- Water Supply:
- Provide clean, fresh water at all times. Use elevated waterers to keep them free from contamination.
Step 4: Care and Maintenance
- Health Monitoring:
- Watch for signs of illness like lethargy, loss of appetite, or nasal discharge.
- Implement a deworming and vaccination schedule based on veterinary advice.
- Cleanliness:
- Clean bedding weekly to prevent ammonia buildup and pest infestations.
- Predator Protection:
- Secure housing and fencing against common predators like foxes, raccoons, and hawks.
- Behavior Management:
- Turkeys can be territorial; ensure sufficient space to reduce aggression.
Best Practices for Profitable Turkey Farming
- Start Small:
- Begin with a small flock to minimize risk and learn management skills before scaling up.
- Adopt Free-Range Practices:
- Free-range or pastured turkeys are often preferred by consumers and command higher prices.
- Timing Is Key:
- Plan breeding and rearing schedules to have turkeys ready for sale during peak holiday seasons.
- Diversify Products:
- Offer turkey meat, eggs (from heritage breeds), or live birds for breeding.
- Marketing Strategies:
- Use social media to promote your farm, highlighting organic practices and animal welfare.
- Partner with local farmers’ markets, butcher shops, or restaurants to establish a customer base.
Challenges in Turkey Farming and Solutions
1. High Mortality in Poults
- Poults are fragile and prone to chilling.
- Solution: Maintain consistent brooder temperatures and monitor closely during the first few weeks.
2. Diseases and Parasites
- Turkeys are susceptible to blackhead disease and respiratory infections.
- Solution: Rotate grazing areas and maintain strict biosecurity measures.
3. Predation
- Free-range turkeys are vulnerable to predators.
- Solution: Invest in predator-proof fencing and shelter.
Profit Potential in Small-Scale Turkey Farming
With proper management, turkey farming can be highly profitable. Here’s an example of potential earnings:
- Turkeys Sold: 20 turkeys at an average weight of 15 pounds each, selling at $5 per pound = $1,500.
- Feed Costs: $20 per turkey for six months = $400.
- Net Profit: $1,100 (excluding labor and miscellaneous expenses).
Selling free-range or organic turkeys can further increase profit margins due to premium pricing.
Conclusion
Small-scale turkey farming is a versatile and profitable venture that combines sustainability with financial benefits. By following best practices for breed selection, housing, feeding, and health management, you can establish a thriving backyard business that meets local market demand.
Whether you’re raising turkeys for personal consumption, seasonal sales, or year-round profits, this guide equips you with the strategies and insights needed for success. Start small, plan strategically, and enjoy the rewards of running your backyard turkey farm!
