Farm Animals

Space Requirements for Farmed Turkeys

Commercial turkeys are among the most intensively housed farm animals, often unable to move freely or express natural behaviours.

Key Facts

Commercial turkeys are typically given 0.04-0.06 m2 per bird at slaughter weight
Turkeys in the wild range over several kilometres daily and roost in trees
Lameness affects 25-50% of commercial turkeys at slaughter
Breast blisters, hock burns, and skin lesions are common in intensive production
Slower-growing heritage turkey breeds have significantly better welfare outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Modern commercial turkeys have been bred to grow so large and rapidly that many cannot stand comfortably or move without pain by slaughter age. Lameness is endemic in the industry, indicating chronic musculoskeletal suffering. Space allowances in intensive systems are insufficient for normal movement. Higher welfare standards with more space, environmental enrichment, and slower-growing breeds significantly reduce suffering at the cost of higher production.

What You Can Do

Choose heritage breed or higher-welfare turkey products
Support welfare standards requiring slower-growing turkey breeds
Advocate for mandatory lameness scoring in turkey production
Learn about the natural behaviours turkeys express in enriched environments
Reduce turkey consumption or choose welfare-certified alternatives