Turkey breeding is gaining popularity in farms and private households due to its high productivity rates at relatively low costs. Among the few breeds suitable for growing in temperate climates, the bronze broad-breasted turkey and its related white broad-breasted turkey are widely known. Each subspecies has its own distinctive characteristics that breeders need to take into account when choosing.
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What is the difference between a bronze broad-breasted and a white broad-breasted?
The broad-breasted turkey, called the bronze, was bred in America to be raised for meat on an industrial scale in a relatively short time.Representatives have bright black plumage with golden-bronze splashes. They are distinguished by a developed, massive chest, endurance, fertility and unpretentiousness. Females lay eggs from the age of 10 months and readily breed offspring. Up to 80% of eggs are fertilized, and the survival rate of turkey poults reaches 90%.
The White Broadbreast was developed by crossing the Broadbreasted Bronze and the White Dutch. The bred subspecies with white plumage and a characteristic golden-brown patch on the chest showed good indicators of vitality and productivity.
White turkey quickly adapts to climatic conditions, is characterized by high productivity and rapid weight gain.
Breed characteristics:
| White | Bronze | |
| Average weight at 6 months of males, kilograms | 17 | 18 |
| Average weight of females, kilogram | 8 | 10 |
| Number of eggs per season | 100-120 | 120 |
| Age of onset of egg laying | 9 months | 10 months |
The main difference between related birds is their keeping conditions. Turkeys with bronze plumage, bred for industrial breeding, are not suitable for walking on pastures and must be raised in a closed poultry house. Whites, on the contrary, need long walks; a long stay in a confined space negatively affects their development.
What breed of turkeys is better to choose?
Breeding both turkeys allows farmers to obtain high-quality dietary meat and eggs. Both breeds are undemanding and adapted for growing in temperate climates.The choice between two related subspecies is usually made based on breeding goals and housing conditions. A white turkey is suitable for farms with organized bird walking.
If you plan to raise birds indoors, it is better to get bronze ones. The subspecies is also recommended if you plan to breed a large number of birds for meat, but you must take into account the cost of feed and vitamin supplements.
