What diseases are common when raising turkeys and chickens together

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What diseases are common when raising turkeys and chickens together

If you’re a poultry enthusiast or a backyard farmer, you may be wondering if chickens and turkeys can coexist in the same area. The short answer is yes, they can. But should they? While chickens and turkeys can live together harmoniously under the right conditions, there are important health, space, and feeding considerations to keep in mind.

Let’s explore the benefits, challenges, and key tips to safely keeping a mixed flock of chickens and turkeys.

Benefits of Keeping Chickens and Turkeys Together

  • Coexistence: Both species generally coexist peacefully, with turkeys often acting as mediators among chickens and even breaking up fights.
  • Natural Peacemakers: Turkeys are calmer and less flighty than chickens, which can help create a balanced and stress-free environment.
  • Shared Living Space: In many cases, turkeys can live in the same coop and outdoor run as chickens if properly managed.

Challenges of Keeping Chickens and Turkeys Together

1. Blackhead Disease (Histomoniasis)

One of the biggest concerns when keeping chickens and turkeys together is blackhead disease, caused by the protozoan parasite Histomonas meleagridis.

  • How it spreads: The disease spreads through parasitic cecal worm eggs found in bird droppings or earthworms that consume the infected eggs.
  • Chickens as carriers: Chickens are less susceptible to blackhead disease and may show mild symptoms or none at all. However, they can become carriers and unknowingly spread the disease to turkeys.
  • Effects on turkeys: Turkeys are highly susceptible and often die from the disease. Symptoms include lethargy, weight loss, and drooping wings.
  • Prevention: Consult with local veterinarians to understand the prevalence of blackhead disease in your area. If the disease is common, it may be best to keep chickens and turkeys separate.

2. Different Dietary Needs

  • Chickens and turkeys require different diets:
    • Chickens: Layer feed rich in calcium and minerals is essential for egg production.
    • Turkeys: High-protein diets (especially for turkeys raised for meat) are necessary for proper growth.
  • Risks of sharing feed:
    • Chickens consuming high-protein turkey feed may not be harmed, but turkeys may miss out on essential nutrients if fed only chicken feed.
    • Meat chickens (like Cornish crosses) consuming turkey feed may grow too quickly and develop health problems.

3. Space and Roosting Requirements

  • Turkeys are larger and need more space than chickens. Ensure that the coop and outdoor run are spacious enough for both species to avoid overcrowding.
  • Roosting bars must be sturdy and wide enough to accommodate turkeys’ larger feet. A 2×2 or 2×4 roost is ideal to prevent frostbite during cold weather.

Brooding and Raising Chicks and Poults Together

  • Brooding considerations: Turkey poults are more fragile than chicks and may be trampled or pecked by more energetic baby chicks. For the best survival rates, brood them separately.
  • Different feed: Turkey poults require higher-protein starter feed compared to chicks.
  • Mother hens hatching turkey eggs: A broody hen can successfully hatch turkey eggs (which take 28 days to hatch compared to 21 days for chicken eggs). Turkeys quickly learn from hens and adapt well.

Feeding Tips for Adult Chickens and Turkeys

  • For meat turkeys: Provide a high-protein diet to ensure proper growth.
  • For ornamental or pet turkeys: Chicken layer feed is sufficient if they are not being raised for meat.
  • Separate feeding areas: If possible, set up separate feeding stations to prevent chickens and turkeys from eating each other’s feed.

How to Prevent Blackhead Disease

  1. Keep the coop and run clean: Regularly clean and disinfect the living space to reduce the risk of infection.
  2. Rotate grazing areas: If possible, move the coop and run periodically to prevent buildup of parasites in the soil.
  3. Minimize contact with wild birds: Wild birds can carry blackhead disease, so cover outdoor runs with netting if necessary.
  4. Consult a vet: If you suspect blackhead disease, seek veterinary advice immediately.

Chickens and turkeys can live together and even thrive under the right conditions, but the risk of blackhead disease and dietary differences are major considerations. If you’re raising turkeys for meat, it’s generally best to keep them separate. However, if you’re keeping turkeys as pets or for ornamental purposes, they can live happily alongside chickens as long as they receive proper care and nutrition.

By managing their environment carefully and addressing potential health concerns, you can enjoy a diverse and harmonious mixed flock.

FAQ’s

Can chickens and turkeys live together?

Yes, chickens and turkeys can live together, but certain precautions must be taken. Issues like blackhead disease, different dietary needs, and space requirements need careful management.

What is blackhead disease, and how does it affect poultry?

Blackhead disease, caused by the protozoan *Histomonas meleagridis*, is a serious condition that affects turkeys more severely than chickens. It spreads through infected droppings and earthworms, and turkeys often die from the disease.

Can chickens spread blackhead disease to turkeys?

Yes, chickens can be carriers of blackhead disease without showing symptoms. They can spread the disease to turkeys through infected droppings or contaminated soil.

Do chickens and turkeys need different feed?

Yes, turkeys require a higher-protein diet compared to chickens, especially if they are being raised for meat. Laying hens require more calcium and minerals to produce sturdy eggs.

How much space do turkeys need compared to chickens?

Turkeys are larger and need more space to roost and roam. Provide at least 10-12 square feet per turkey in the run and sturdy roosting bars to prevent overcrowding and frostbite.

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