1. Egg:
- Turkey hens lay eggs that are incubated for approximately 28 days before hatching.
- The eggs are typically incubated in a controlled environment, such as an incubator or under a broody hen.
2. Poult (1-3 weeks):
- Newly hatched turkeys are called poults.
- During this stage, poults are highly vulnerable and require care and protection.
- They are usually kept in a brooder, which provides warmth and shelter.
- Poults are fed a high-protein diet to support rapid growth.
3. Brooding (4-8 weeks):
- During the brooding stage, poults gradually develop their feathers and become more active.
- They can now regulate their body temperature and no longer require the warmth of a brooder.
4. Growing (9-20 weeks):
- Turkeys enter a rapid growth phase during this period.
- They are moved to larger pens or pastures where they have access to more space to roam and feed.
- Turkeys are fed a diet of grains, protein supplements, and other nutrients essential for proper development.
5. Maturation (21-24 weeks):
- Turkeys reach sexual maturity at around 20-24 weeks of age.
- Males are called toms, while females are called hens.
6. Reproduction:
- Mature turkeys mate in the spring, and hens begin laying eggs.
- The eggs are then incubated to produce the next generation of turkeys.
7. Market Weight:
- Depending on the breed and purpose, most domesticated turkeys are processed for meat between 16 and 26 weeks of age, before they reach full maturity. Some turkeys may be kept as breeding stock.