The Blue Slate Turkey is a striking heritage breed known for its unique, slate-blue plumage and high-quality meat. Originally bred in North America, this turkey is valued for its beauty, gentle nature, and exceptional flavor.
Key Features:
Appearance: Blue Slate turkeys have distinctive slate-blue feathers with hints of gray and black, giving them a soft, muted appearance. Males (toms) are larger, with a broad chest and a majestic stance, while females (hens) are more petite but still elegant. The breed also features a fleshy, red snood and wattles.
Size: Blue Slate turkeys are medium to large birds, with toms typically weighing around 20-25 lbs and hens around 12-15 lbs. They have a well-developed, muscular frame ideal for meat production.
Meat Production: Known for their tender, flavorful meat, Blue Slate turkeys are prized for their rich, juicy texture. The slower growth of heritage breeds like the Blue Slate contributes to better taste and quality compared to commercial turkeys.
Temperament: Blue Slate turkeys are known for their calm and friendly demeanor. They are generally easy to handle and can be kept in small flocks. These birds are social and do well in free-range settings where they can forage.
Hardiness: Blue Slate turkeys are hardy and adapt well to various climates. They can handle both hot and cold conditions, though they do require proper shelter from extreme weather. They thrive in free-range environments and are relatively disease-resistant.
 
Summary:
The Blue Slate Turkey is a heritage breed known for its unique blue-gray plumage and superior meat quality. With a calm temperament and hardiness, they are perfect for free-range farming. Their flavorful, tender meat makes them a popular choice for those seeking a traditional, high-quality turkey for special occasions.
 
*Turkeys are sold as straight run only and will not be sexed.