Commercial turkeys are raised at densities that severely restrict movement. Overcrowding causes injuries, disease, and prevents expression of natural behaviors across millions of birds.
Turkey welfare in commercial systems is compromised from the start by genetic selection for extreme growth. Broad-breasted white turkeys grow so fast that their skeletal and cardiovascular systems struggle to keep pace, resulting in lameness, heart problems, and chronic discomfort. At typical commercial stocking densities, birds cannot move freely, dust bathe, or express foraging behaviors. Overcrowding increases aggression and disease transmission. The inability to mate naturally — a consequence of extreme breast muscle development — represents a fundamental disconnect from natural behavior. Even birds that appear physically healthy are likely experiencing chronic frustration and discomfort. Slower-growing heritage breeds and lower stocking densities offer substantially better welfare.