First Nature Farms: Products: Wild Turkeys

Products » Wild Turkeys

First Nature Farms: Merriam's Wild Turkeys

What makes them wild?

The wild turkey is a native bird that ranges from Central America to southern Canada. Of the five subspecies, the "Merriam's" are native to southern Alberta and B.C.
They were a staple food for the aboriginal people long before the pilgrims arrived. Fossil records go back for millions of years.
Quite distinct from their domestic relatives, wild turkeys are fast runners and excellent flyers.

How are they different from a regular turkey?

Wild turkeys are smaller birds ranging from 5 - 15 pounds. Rather than white, the plummage is almost blach with shades of irridescence throughout. Not a plump bird, the slow growing wild turkeys are streamlined in shape. Their meat is tender and moist and the flavour is most often summarized as "the best turkey I've ever tasted!".

How are they raised?

Eggs are collected in April and May from the breeding birds and incubated for 28 days, Once the poults (young turkeys) are about 5 weeks old, they are moved outdoors into huge archrib pens. Designed and built on the farm, the 4500 square foot pens provide ample room for the birds to socialize, wander, roost and fly. The pens are also moved every few days onto fresh pasture. The stressless procedure takes only 2 - 5 minutes and is one the birds relish. They know that each move brings on a whole new banquet of green and grubs. The birds never go back onto previous pasture which eventually grows back thick and lush!

What do they eat?

The main diet consists of wheat, peas, canola, barley, oats, rye, soya, flax, sunflower and borage - all certified organic! All grains are processed on the farm regilarly to provide nutrition. The organic pastures also provide an important part of the turkey's diet with a diverse selection of plants and insects.

Medicated?

With good food, fresh air and lots of space, the birds are naturally healthy. At no time in their lives do they receive any medications, antibiotics or hormones.

Are they certified organic?

Yes! As of 1999 the Merriam's wild turkeys of First Nature Farms are all certified organic by the Peace River Organic Producers Association (grower #99:009GF).