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Narragansett Turkey

The Narragansett is a New England heritage turkey: gray and tan body with bronze undertones, exceptional foragers, good mothers, hardy in cold. Pre-dates the more famous Bronze and Bourbon Red.

About this breed

Quick facts: Narragansett Turkey

OriginNarragansett Bay, Rhode Island - 1600s
APA recognized1874
Conservation statusWatch
Adult weightToms 22-28 lb, Hens 14-17 lb (live)
Size classHeritage
Eggs per year~60
Egg colorCream with brown speckles
Egg sizeLarge
BroodinessHigh
Cold hardinessExcellent
Heat toleranceGood
Noise levelAverage
Flight tendencyStrong flier
Beginner friendlyYes

History & origin

One of the oldest American turkey breeds, named after Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. Developed in the 1600s-1700s by crossing wild Eastern Turkey with imported English Norfolk Black turkeys. Dominant New England table bird through the 1800s. APA-recognized 1874. Nearly extinct by 1990; Heritage Turkey Foundation revived it. Now Watch status with growing breeder base.

Personality & temperament

calmforaginggood mothershardy

Best for: table bird, pasture, small farm, breeding

Husbandry & care

Indoor coop space10 sq ft per bird
Run space30 sq ft per bird
Roost bar15 in per bird

Space: One of the BEST foragers of any heritage turkey - half their feed comes from pasture.

Feeding: Turkey starter 28%, grower 22%, finisher 18%. Limited grain needed if pastured.

Health: Blackhead risk - separate from chickens.

Climate: Zones 3-7. New England winter origin - excellent cold hardiness.

Buying tips

  • Hens make excellent broody mothers - one hen can raise 10-15 poults on pasture.
  • Narragansetts grow slightly slower than Bourbon Red - butcher at 28-32 weeks.
  • Strong fliers - 6-foot fencing is the minimum.
  • Plumage similar to Bronze but with steel-gray base coat - confirm with photos before buying.

Did you know?

  • Predates the 1776 Declaration of Independence as an established American breed.
  • Best foraging heritage turkey - converts insects, weeds, and acorns more efficiently than commercial varieties.
  • Hens often go broody twice per season.
  • Named after the Narragansett Native American tribe of Rhode Island.

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