Bourbon Red Turkeys: Breed Profile

The Bourbon Red is a handsome heritage turkey with deep reddish-brown body feathers and white wings and tail. It is a medium-sized bird, smaller than the Broad Breasted turkeys that dominate the market, and it has a reputation for flavor.

History

The breed was developed in Kentucky around the end of the nineteenth century, with breeders in Bourbon County often credited. It was admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in the early twentieth century. Bourbon Reds became popular for their color and fine meat, then lost ground as commercial turkeys changed the industry.

Purpose

Bourbon Reds were bred as a general-purpose farm turkey, good for meat and attractive in the yard. Unlike modern commercial turkeys, they can mate naturally and have a body that allows the birds to move, forage and, in many cases, fly. They grow more slowly than commercial birds and carry less breast meat.

Where the breed stands today

The Bourbon Red is one of the better-known heritage turkeys and is kept by small farms and heritage breeders. The Livestock Conservancy has tracked heritage turkeys on its conservation lists, and the Bourbon Red has appeared in past categories. Check the Conservancy's current list for the latest status.

Showing Bourbon Reds at 4-H and FFA

Pros

• Recognized variety. Turkeys have standard classes in many poultry shows.
• Strong story. A heritage turkey is easy to talk about in interviews and record books.
• Beautiful bird. The color stands out in a poultry barn.
• Direct-sale potential. Heritage turkeys sell well to customers who want a distinctive holiday bird.
• Conservation value. Raising a heritage turkey helps preserve genetic diversity.

Cons

• Slower growth. Birds take longer to reach size, and feed costs add up.
• Space needs. Turkeys need room to roam, secure fencing and protection from predators.
• Flighty. Birds may be less calm than ducks or chickens.
• Fewer classes. Some shows have no turkey classes or few entries.
• Health concerns. Turkeys can be sensitive to some diseases, and shows have biosecurity rules.

What to look for in a Bourbon Red show bird

The Standard calls for a deep, broad body with a full chest, strong legs and a carriage that is alert and balanced. The body feathers are a deep reddish brown and the wing and tail feathers are white, with some barring in the tail. Check for clean eyes, clear nostrils, healthy skin on the head and sound feet.

Questions to ask a breeder

• Are the birds from show-quality or utility stock?
• How have they been raised and handled?
• What is their health and vaccination history?
• How big do the birds get at the age I will show them?
• Does my show have a turkey class, and what are the entry rules?

Bottom line

The Bourbon Red is a good project for a student who wants a heritage story, a beautiful bird and a strong direct-sale option. Plan for space and biosecurity before you buy.

See What Is a Heritage Breed? for background. agriculture.directory lists suppliers and vets, and farm.fm has Turkey Hosts True Crime Podcast, Solves Cold Cases from the Coop.