spindly legged turkeys

[CarolynEarley]

We have four turkeys. One has a very wonly leg which we are keeping an eye on. The others have very spindly legs and seem to 'tread carefully', the male being the strongest. Is this normal? Can we do anything to strengthen their legs?

 

[Davidd]

Hi, it is normal for them to be a little clumsy- they are not the brightest of birds :roll: They should strengthen up when mature. What are you feeding them?
regards, David

 

[Tim]

Yes, good question David - that was my immediate thought - Turkeys need higher protein as youngsters when young compared to other poultry...

T

 

[Davidd]

Hi, yes, that's why i was asking- they do much better on the right feed but i know CarolynEarley is not in the UK and may have difficulty getting turkey growers.
regards, David

 

[CarolynEarley]

yes it is the same problem with all our poultry - we are in Crete and the options are pretty much either corn or wheat ... and we get leftovers like water melons, and kitchen scraps. They have access to corn and wheat and scraps as well as the stuff that grows in the garden - grass, weeds etc.

 

[Tim]

Wheat is approx 10% protein - very low for turkeys..

I would think about feeding some higher protein scraps if formulated feeds are not available. Egg, seeds (like sunflower) Milk (perhaps mixed with scraps like bread?).

For youngsters in the short term I would boil and mash eggs for them to suppliment their protein intake.

 

[CarolynEarley]

Thanks Tim. I did given them hardboiled eggs yesterday ... of course if the hens would hurry up and start laying eggs they could have lots of them!!! Anyway, thanks again and I will try to get more protein into them as you suggest.

 

[CarolynEarley]

We have been giving them lentils as well. We asked at the local agricultural shop (the man there does speak English) and he told us to go to the vet and get some special powder to put in the drinking water that will help (not sure what is in it but it is bright yellow!). I have mixed some of the water mixture in with their food as well to make sure they are having it. I have to add this for 8 to 10 days, so hopefully this will help. We have also moved the two weak ones into the goat pen away from all the others to give them a break from being picked on. They were not happy with the move at first but I think they are getting used to the idea. :|

 

[Tim]

Glad to hear you're getting on top of the problem.

It must be difficult for you without access to the propper feeds..

 

[CarolynEarley]

they seem to be getting stronger except for Iggle who I now think must have broken her leg some time ago and it has set wrong ... still using the powder for a couple more days (you give it for 10 days). We have given her cheese and the seeds from fruits and veg that we have. Keeping hopeful ... It is difficult without proper feeds but we are working on it ...