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Narragansett Turkey

(Meleagris gallopavo)

Narragansett Turkey

Meet the Narragansett Turkey, a heritage breed of domestic turkey known for its beautiful feather pattern, bold personality, and ties to early American farming.

Physical Description

Narragansett Turkeys are a domesticated breed descended from the Wild Turkey. Their feathers are mostly gray, with brown tail feathers tipped in white, giving them a distinctive and elegant appearance. Males can grow up to 48 inches long and weigh as much as 25 pounds, while females are smaller and usually reach around 18 pounds. Both males and females have blue and red facial skin, though males typically have a larger wattle.

Where They Live

The wild ancestors of Narragansett Turkeys live in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, grasslands, and savannas. As a domesticated breed, Narragansett Turkeys are commonly found on farms and in managed animal settings.

What They Eat

Narragansett Turkeys are omnivores. Their diet includes fruits, seeds, insects, and other foods they can forage from the ground.

Life & Family

Narragansett Turkeys are social birds that communicate through a wide range of sounds. In fact, they are capable of making more than 20 different vocalizations. During breeding season, males display their feathers and use the familiar gobble to attract mates. After hatching, young turkeys, called poults, stay close to their mother, who protects and warms them until they are old enough to become more independent. They typically live 7 to 10 years on average.

A Heritage Breed

Narragansett Turkeys are considered a heritage breed, meaning they still retain many of the natural behaviors and physical traits of their wild ancestors. That includes strong foraging instincts, alert behavior, and a more traditional appearance than many commercial turkey breeds.