6 Stunning Ornamental Turkey Breeds to Consider

If you're considering keeping turkeys on a small holding or a spacious rural garden, there are six magnificent ornamental breeds to explore. These turkeys are fairly easy to care for with proper feeding, worming, and secure housing, and they bring both charm and practicality to your land.

Not only are turkeys impressive in appearance, but they also serve as natural guard animals, alerting you to strangers or predators like foxes—especially useful if you also keep other poultry such as chickens or ducks.

The Royal Palm Turkey

The Royal Palm is a striking ornamental breed known for its predominantly white plumage accented with glossy black bands. Bred mainly for appearance and showing, these turkeys do well on small holdings or rural gardens. They are sizeable birds, typically weighing up to 10 kg (22 lbs). Their calm temperament and unique colouring make them a standout attraction.

The Midget White Turkey

The Midget White is one of the smallest and rarest turkey breeds, cherished for its pure white feathers. Because they are on the critical list for rarity, acquiring Midget Whites can be a special pursuit. You may either hatch fertile eggs yourself, requiring an incubator and nursery setup, or buy young or mature birds from reputable breeders in the UK.

The Beltsville Small White Turkey

Originating from Maryland, USA, the Beltsville Small White is another smaller breed with lovely white plumage. This breed resembles the Midget White but is distinct in breed classification. Buying young birds from UK breeders is generally easier and more cost-effective than hatching eggs, though hatching remains an option for experienced keepers.

The Red Bourbon Turkey

With its deep, reddish-brown plumage, the Red Bourbon is a large and robust breed bred in Kentucky and Pennsylvania. Weighing up to 15 kg (33 lbs), this breed suits owners with ample outdoor space. Their beautiful colouring and size make them both a handsome display breed and a practical choice for larger holdings.

The Black Turkey (Norfolk Black)

Also known as the Norfolk Black or Black Spanish turkey, this large European breed boasts glossy black feathers that shimmer beautifully in sunlight. Males, called stags, are larger than females (hens) and require enough room to roam and a sturdy shelter at night. They are majestic birds that can become loyal guardians of your homestead.

The Jersey Buff Turkey

The Jersey Buff features a lovely red-tinged buff plumage resembling a gentle salmon colour. Originating from America in the 1940s, they are rare and prized for their charming looks and sociable nature. Males display proudly, puffing up their feathers in full strut. Keeping a small trio is popular among poultry enthusiasts.

Responsible Care and Housing

While turkeys are hardy, they require a secure shed or barn for shelter at night to protect them from foxes and other predators. During the day, turkeys love to forage freely, which helps maintain a healthy environment. With regular veterinary care, worming, and a balanced diet, these ornamental birds can thrive and become an engaging part of your countryside life.

Whether you're a new keeper or looking to add colour and character to your land, these six turkey breeds offer various sizes, colours, and temperaments to suit different lifestyles and holdings.