Description Broad Breasted Bronze Turkey Breed History and Origin The Broad Breasted Bronze turkey is considered one of the largest and heaviest turkey varieties available today. The Bronze strain originated in North America and was admitted into the American Standard of Perfection in 1874. This modern broad-breasted type has been selectively bred for rapid growth and meat production. Cackle Hatchery® Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing its Broad Breasted Bronze Turkey strain since 1987 and currently utilizes bloodlines from Aviagen Turkeys, Inc. to maintain production quality and consistency. Appearance and Breed Characteristics Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys are known for their large body size and classic bronze-colored feathering with a metallic sheen. Toms can reach approximately 29 pounds by 20 weeks, while hens average around 21 pounds at the same age (weights are estimates and not guaranteed). Their body structure is designed for efficient meat production, making them a top choice for commercial and home growers alike. Meat Production and Performance This breed is highly valued for its excellent feed-to-meat conversion rate, making it one of the most efficient turkeys for meat production. They grow quickly and produce a high yield, making them ideal for family use or small-scale farming operations. Reproduction and Breeding Notes Due to their large size, Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys do not reproduce naturally very well. At Cackle Hatchery®, parent stock are artificially inseminated to ensure strong fertility and hatchability rates. Fertility percentages generally range between 65–80%, with a recommended mating ratio of four females to one male. Compared to heritage turkey breeds, they typically have a shorter natural lifespan and reduced reproductive capability. Temperament and Management Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys are generally docile and manageable, making them suitable for backyard and farm environments. They prefer lower roosting heights between 0 to 2 feet due to their size and weight. Egg Production Hens lay off-white eggs with brown specks, though egg production is considered poor. Eggs are typically large to extra large in size. Important Notes Due to shipping regulations, we cannot ship turkeys to Hawaii. Turkey Care Resources To help you successfully raise turkeys, see our resources: Starve-Out in Turkey Poults https://www.cacklehatchery.com/starve-out-in-turkey-poults/ Keeping Turkeys with Chickens https://blog.cacklehatchery.com/keeping-turkeys-with-chickens/ How Many Eggs Does a Turkey Lay? https://www.cacklehatchery.com/how-many-eggs-does-a-turkey-lay/ Blackhead in Turkeys Is a Serious Disease https://www.cacklehatchery.com/blackhead-in-turkeys-is-a-serious-disease/ Sexing Turkey Poults and Guinea Keets https://www.cacklehatchery.com/sexing-turkey-poults-and-guinea-keets/ Broad Breasted Bronze Turkey FAQs How big do Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys get? Toms can reach around 29 lbs and hens about 21 lbs by 20 weeks. Are Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys good for meat production? Yes. They are one of the most efficient meat-producing turkey breeds available. Can Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys reproduce naturally? No. Due to their size, artificial insemination is typically required. Are Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys good for backyard raising? Yes. They are generally docile and suitable for backyard or small farm environments.
