Farmed Animals

Farmed Turkey Welfare: Breeding, Housing, and Health

Commercial turkeys face many of the same welfare challenges as broiler chickens, with selection for rapid growth causing health problems and limiting natural behavior.

Key Facts

Commercial turkeys have been selectively bred to grow so large they cannot reproduce naturally
Breast meat selection has created birds so top-heavy many suffer from leg disorders
Over 650 million turkeys are slaughtered globally each year
Heart and lung disease are common in fast-growing commercial turkey strains
Turkeys are highly social birds with complex behavioral repertoires largely thwarted in commercial settings
Enrichment with perches and objects can improve welfare but is rarely provided at scale

Welfare Considerations

Commercial turkey production shares many of the same genetic welfare problems as broiler production, but with less public and regulatory attention. Birds bred to be extremely large and breast-heavy suffer from musculoskeletal and cardiovascular problems. Social and behavioral needs for exploration, dust bathing, and social interaction are rarely met in commercial housing. Consumer and legislative pressure for turkey welfare reforms lags behind poultry.

What You Can Do

Reduce turkey consumption or choose products from smaller-scale, certified welfare producers
Support food companies sourcing turkey from slower-growing breeds
Advocate for turkey welfare to be included in poultry welfare regulations
Donate to organizations working on farmed turkey welfare research and advocacy