Eagle Nest
- Heritage Turkey Lines
Beyond their unique looks and breeding habits, heritage turkeys grow at a slower pace—usually taking six to ten months to reach market weight. This extended growth period results in a well-developed muscle tone and a richer, more complex flavor, characteristics highly prized by enthusiasts seeking traditional, full-flavored turkey meat. Additionally, their natural foraging habits contribute significantly to the quality of their diet and, as a result, the taste of their meat. Being able to roam freely and forage naturally means their nutrition is varied and balanced, which enhances both the flavor and the overall quality of the bird.
Supporting heritage turkey breeds is about more than just individual preference; it contributes to preserving important genetic diversity within the species. From the perspective of sustainable agriculture and conservation, maintaining these rare poultry lines ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from these valuable breeds.
If you have any questions about which variety of turkey might be right for you, or you need assistance placing your order, call 419-562-1993 today and a member of our team will be happy to help.
Royal Palm
The first palm patterned turkeys appeared in a mix flock on the farm of Enoch Carson of Lake Worth, Florida in 1920. The striking black and white pattern was perfected through years of selection. The Royal Palm was added by the APA in 1971.
This is a thrifty variety of turkey that are good foragers and are capable of flying. The hens lay a large spotted cream-colored egg. Males mature at 20-22 pounds, females at 12 pounds.
Straight Run only: $14.00 per poult
Bronze
The Bronze turkey is the result of settlers in the 1700’s crossing the European turkeys they brought with them to the eastern wild turkeys. The beautiful coppery-bronze shimmer in the feathers comes from the birds’ wild ancestors while the calmer personality is the result of using domesticated birds. This crossing produced offspring that was larger than the parent stock and had good hybrid-vigor. The name “Bronze” formally began being used in 1830 and it was recognized by the APA in 1874.
Historically the Bronze was the most popular variety of turkey for most of American history until the rise of commercial broad-breasted white turkey. They are a heritage variety that can reproduce naturally, is slower growing, and has a longer lifespan. The hens lay a large spotted cream-colored egg. Males mature at 35-38 pounds. Females mature at 18-22 pounds.
Straight Run only: $14.00 per poult
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Bourbon Red
The Bourbon Red is an American heritage variety of turkey known for its distinctive reddish-brown plumage and flavorful meat. A dual-purpose bird, it was a popular commercial turkey in the early 20th century before the rise of industrial farming. The variety was created by J.F. Barbee in the late 1800’s in Bourbon County Kentucky, for which it was named. The American Poultry Association officially recognized the Bourbon Red in 1909.
The Bourbon Red has a deep chestnut-mahogany or reddish-brown feathers across the body. It has distinctive white feathers on the wings and tail with a narrow red band crossing the tail feathers. Known for being friendly and calm, they are a hardy heritage variety that adapts well to free-ranging and pasture-based farming operations. Hens lay a large pale cream egg with spotting. They are known to be reliable layers. Mature toms can weigh up to 33 pounds, hens reaching up to 18 pounds.
Straight run only: $14.00 per poult