Commercial turkeys have been bred to grow so rapidly that their welfare is compromised by their own bodies. Understanding the welfare challenges in turkey farming drives demand for better practices.
Turkey welfare in commercial production is fundamentally compromised by the genetics of modern commercial strains. Birds bred for extreme growth carry a physiological burden that causes chronic discomfort, lameness, and cardiovascular disease regardless of husbandry quality. Slower-growing breeds with more natural body proportions show dramatically better leg health, reduced cardiovascular problems, and more active behavior. The welfare improvements achievable through slower-growing breed adoption are substantial. Additional improvements include providing adequate space, environmental enrichment including straw bales and perches, and eliminating beak tipping through reduced stocking densities and stimulation.