Description

Bourbon Red Turkey

Bourbon Red Turkey is a striking and historic American heritage breed, admired for both its rich coloration and excellent table qualities. Originally developed in the 1800s in Bourbon County, Kentucky, this breed was created by crossing Standard Bronze, White Holland, and Buff turkeys to produce a bird known for its beauty, hardiness, and flavorful meat.

The most distinguishing feature of the Bourbon Red is its deep, chestnut-red plumage, which contrasts elegantly with its white wing and tail feathers. Males display vivid red, blue, and white highlights on their heads, especially during breeding season, making them particularly eye-catching. Adult toms typically weigh around 23–33 pounds, while hens average 12–18 pounds, making them a manageable size for small farms and homesteads.

Beyond their visual appeal, Bourbon Reds are known for their calm temperament, natural foraging ability, and strong maternal instincts. Hens are reliable setters and attentive mothers, often raising their poults with minimal intervention. This self-sufficiency makes them an ideal choice for pasture-based systems or sustainable farming operations.

In terms of meat quality, Bourbon Reds are highly regarded for their flavorful, lean, and tender meat with a fine-grained texture. They are often chosen by chefs and food enthusiasts for traditional holiday meals, offering a taste that many say surpasses commercial breeds.

As a recognized heritage breed by the American Poultry Association, the Bourbon Red Turkey also plays an important role in biodiversity and sustainable agriculture. Raising these birds not only supports conservation efforts but also helps preserve a piece of American agricultural history.

Whether you’re interested in raising turkeys for meat, breeding, or simply as a stunning addition to your farm, the Bourbon Red is a breed that delivers on beauty, utility, and heritage.

Breed Facts

• Poultry Show Class: Turkeys
• Weights: Hen—–14 lbs
  Tom—-23 lbs
• Purpose and Type: Egg Laying and Meat; Exhibition
• Egg Color: Off White with brown specks
• Egg Production: Poor
• Egg Size: Large to Extra Large
• Temperament: Active
• Fertility Percentage: 60-75%
• Broody: Setters
• Mating Ratio:  7 Females to 1 Male
• Roost Height: 2+ feet
• Country of Origin: North America
• TLC: Watch Status
• APA: Yes, Recognized by the Standard of Perfection in 1909
• Breeder Farm Source: “Cackle Hatchery® Poultry Breeding Farm” developing our bloodline or strain of Bourbon Red Turkey Breed since 1978.