Description of blue slate turkeys and breed characteristics, breeding

Blue turkeys are an interesting and distinctive breed. They are often called slate. These birds were bred relatively recently. Most often they are bred for decorative purposes. That’s why such birds are rarely found on farms. To succeed in raising these birds, they need to be provided with complete and high-quality care. A balanced diet is of no small importance.

Origin

This breed was bred by American breeders, and this happened by accident.Scientists conducted research on 2 genotypes of birds with black and white feathers. As a result, the chicks had an ashen-colored plumage. Slate slate has a similar color. Stones come in different shades - from black to blue-gray. That’s why turkeys with blue feathers are often called slate.

The breed was described in 1874. It was then that the bird was introduced to the public. It is recognized by the American Poultry Association and the European Community. Officially, the birds were called blue, lavender or blue slate.

Unfortunately, the economic crisis has meant that few farmers have decided to breed birds with colorful feathers. Entrepreneurs relied on obtaining eggs and meat rather than on ornamental poultry farming.

Therefore, slate turkeys were undeservedly forgotten. Today the population of these animals is small. Birds are mainly found in zoos or in small private farms where breed purity is monitored.

Characteristics and description of the breed

A detailed description of the birds is recorded in the documentation of the American Quality Standard. It provides information about all types of turkeys that are bred in Europe and the USA.

Blue turkeys are characterized by the following properties:

1. The birds have blue, lavender or ash-blue feathers. Such individuals are able to take part in competitions. Sometimes birds are distinguished by black or white inserts combined with a blue background.
2. Birds are characterized by a small head. At the same time, there is sparse fluff on the skin. The cover differs in color shades - white, blue, red. There is a pink horn on the head. The eyes are distinguished by a brown tint, and the beak is light.
3. The neck is not covered with feathers. In this area there are bright red folds. They form corals.
4. The metatarsals are covered with pink scales.
5. The feathers are thick and lush. They make the body larger. The back and chest are distinguished by a blue tint. At the same time, it is lighter on the belly and tail. Tail feathers often contain light or dark elements.
6. Females weigh 6.3 kilograms, males - 10.5. Individuals belong to the light cross.
7. Sexual maturity in these birds occurs at 8-9 months.
8. To obtain offspring, families are created from young birds. In this case, there should be a maximum of 8 females per 1 male.
9. The eggs are covered with a creamy shell. Moreover, their weight is 75 grams.
10. The duration of the incubation period is 28-30 days.
11. Turkey poults are distinguished by gray feathers. Their weight is 50 grams. Cubs are characterized by rapid weight gain.
12. The productive weight of birds increases by 8 months.

American farmers claim that birds are considered very undemanding in terms of living conditions. This type of turkey is characterized by a high degree of resistance to the influence of stress factors. They show virtually no aggression. Emotionality is more characteristic of males. However, they demonstrate aggression or anxiety only when danger approaches.

Blue turkey meat is characterized by excellent taste, but the carcass does not always look attractive because it is covered with gray skin.

Pros and cons of blue turkeys

At the same time, blue turkeys also have certain disadvantages.They are considered to be very picky about their conditions and need a balanced diet.

How to properly keep and care for a bird

Slate turkeys can easily withstand the cold. However, they feel much better in the warmth. It is important that the house is dry. Therefore, moisture should not be allowed to penetrate into the turkeys’ housing. It is worth placing a bedding on the floor, which is recommended to be changed systematically.

Of no small importance is the observation of chicks that have just hatched. On the first day they should be kept warm and dry. For this purpose, it is permissible to use a cardboard box. The temperature in the box should be +36 degrees.

It is recommended to arrange the room for slate turkeys in accordance with certain rules. It is permissible to place a maximum of 2 individuals per 1 square meter of area. Temperature is of great importance. In winter it should be at least +5 degrees, in summer – +20.

Diet planning

Blue turkeys need a balanced diet. It is best to buy special food for them. However, if necessary, birds can be fed grains, grass and certain types of vegetables. Turkeys should be walked in spring and summer. This will help them find their own food.

Breeding rules

To obtain blue turkeys, you have to buy a parent flock. It is not worth purchasing fertilized eggs, since it is not always possible to obtain the desired result. Females of this breed are characterized by a pronounced maternal instinct. A laying hen can hatch 20 eggs. However, most often they put no more than 17.

Diseases of slate turkeys

When in contact with other animals, blue turkeys often get sick. They suffer from the following pathologies:

• respiratory mycoplasmosis – associated with high humidity in the poultry house;
• tuberculosis - is considered a dangerous pathology that spreads through contaminated food and water;
• histomoniasis – accompanied by weakness and loss of appetite and caused by insufficient disinfection of the premises.

Blue turkeys have interesting feather colors. They have many advantages, but require special maintenance conditions. For birds to be raised successfully, they need to be provided with quality care.