Turkey Locomotion Welfare: Genetics, Gait, and Reform 2025

Keywords: turkey locomotion, turkey welfare, leg problems, broad-breasted white, gait scoring

Commercially reared turkeys - primarily Broad-Breasted White breeds - are selectively bred for extreme muscle mass that compromises locomotion, joint integrity, and welfare. Gait scoring studies reveal 50-80% of commercial turkeys show locomotion impairment by slaughter age. Leg problems include tibial dyschondroplasia, degenerative joint disease, and valgus-varus deformity. Overweight birds struggle to reach feeders and drinkers. Slow-growing heritage breeds show dramatically better locomotion scores but require longer production cycles. Welfare organisations advocate for mandatory gait scoring and reduced stocking density. Research demonstrates environmental enrichment including perches partially compensates for locomotion limitations by encouraging movement.

Key References: EFSA Turkey Welfare Report 2024; Poultry Science 2024; RSPCA Turkey Welfare Standards 2023

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