Turkeys at Andelin Family Farm

About our turkeys

Turkeys are native to North America and our turkey is a pet of the farm. There are several breeds of turkeys and ours is a Narragansett. Only male turkeys gobble and we can get our turkey to gobble on command!

Turkeys are a ground dwelling bird, but can fly and in the wild they like to sleep in trees to protect themselves from predators. They are omnivores and eat bugs, nuts, plants and seeds. We feed our turkey grain.

Learn about turkeys

Turkey terminology

Male: Tom
Female: Hen

These are the proper terms for male and female turkeys, native to North America.

Our Narragansett turkey

Our turkey is a pet of the farm and will not be on our Thanksgiving table! There are several breeds of turkeys and ours is a Narragansett.

Lifespan differences

In the wild, turkeys only live 3-5 years, however in captivity they live up to about 10 years. Our turkey enjoys a safe, well-cared-for life on the farm.

Ground dwellers who fly

Turkeys are a ground dwelling bird, but can fly and in the wild they like to sleep in trees to protect themselves from predators.

Gobbling on command

Only male turkeys gobble and we can get our turkey to gobble on command! This makes for an entertaining demonstration during farm visits.

Feather displays

Male turkeys like to show off their feathers! They will use their feathers to attract a female or as a sign of dominance.

Omnivore diet

They are omnivores and eat bugs, nuts, plants and seeds. We feed our turkey grain to keep it healthy and well-nourished.

Fun poop fact

Interestingly, turkey poop can identify its gender. Toms have poop shaped like a J and hens have spiral shaped poop. Nature is amazing!

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