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Browse the complete list of breeds and varieties for this species, along with the associations and federations that oversee them.

Summary of the species

Turkey is a large galliform bird raised primarily for meat, and to a lesser extent for eggs and ornamental purposes. In commercial production, the Broad Breasted White is by far the most common meat breed; mature toms typically reach live weights of 22–25 kg, while hens weigh 5–12 kg. Growth to market weight generally occurs within 14–22 weeks depending on line and diet. The feed conversion ratio (live weight gain per unit of feed) typically ranges from about 2.8 to 3.5:1 under standard intensive management. Turkeys are ground-dwelling and gregarious, with strong foraging instincts; males perform vocal and visual displays during the breeding season. Domestic turkeys have an average productive lifespan of 2–3 years in production systems; in more extensive systems or as pets they can live longer. Reproduction: hens commonly lay about 70–100 eggs per year; incubation is about 28 days; hatchability under good management often exceeds 70%. Meat yield from a live weight depends on breed and processing method, typically around 60–75%.

Detailed origin

Origin and domestication: The turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is native to North America. Wild populations occurred across Mexico and the southern United States. Domestication began in Mesoamerica at least 2,000–3,000 BCE, with selection for docility and rapid growth. The first European introductions occurred after 1520, when Spanish explorers brought domesticated birds to Europe; from there the species spread globally. In the 20th century, heavy-breasted meat lines (notably Broad Breasted White) were developed to maximize carcass yield. Today, the domestic turkey gene pool traces back to these lines and to wild North American subspecies.

Detailed description

Description: Morphology and color: Domestic turkeys show pronounced sexual dimorphism; toms are larger, with a broad breast, a fan-shaped tail, and bare skin on the head and neck with a snood and wattles. Plumage in commercial lines is usually white, while wild populations have iridescent copper-bronze plumage with barred wings and tail. Behavior: ground-foraging birds that form flocks. Diet: omnivorous, consuming seeds, insects, fruits, and crop by‑products. Reproduction: mating occurs in spring; males display and vocalize; hens incubate eggs and raise the young. Eggs weigh about 70 g; incubation lasts roughly 28 days; chicks are precocial. Management: housing, ventilation, and disease control are essential; welfare notes: high stocking density and poor litter quality can affect leg health; meat quality and yield vary by breed and diet.

Available breeds

Known varieties