What makes Bourbon Red Heritage Turkeys different

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Commercial turkey breeds have been bred through the years to grow as large as possible and to have the optimum feed-to-weight conversion in the shortest amount of time. The growth of a commercial broad-breasted turkey takes only 4 to 5 months from hatching to plate. While the commercial benefits of this are clear, this approach to turkey production has come at a cost; for example their abnormally large size means that they have reduced mobility and are unable to mate naturally so require artificial insemination.

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In contrast, the heritage turkey breeds are much closer to their wild turkey ancestors. They grow more slowly, taking 7 to 8 months to mature, and do not reach such a large size. On average at this age, turkey stags (males) will reach a live weight of ~23 lbs (10.4kg) and hens (females) will reach ~14 lbs (6.4kg). Importantly, they maintain the ability to exhibit their natural instincts and behaviours, including flying, roosting, foraging for food, and naturally breeding and raising their young. As a result of these natural behaviors the heritage breeds do not grow as heavy, are leaner and have a narrower breast than the more intensively reared commercial breeds.

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The Bourbon Red variety originated in Bourbon Country, Kentucky, in the late 1800’s, and in 1909 it was recognised as an official breed by the American Poultry Association. They are a wonderful variety, curious, social and friendly by nature, and are very handsome (if we do say so ourselves). Over the years the breed has been recognised for its outstanding flavour and has won several tasting competitions.

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As with many heritage turkey varieties, the Bourbon Red breed have priority status on the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST) Watchlist and, alongside our business, we are also passionate about helping to sustain a healthy population of this wonderful rare breed in the UK.