Key Characteristics

Occasionally the Lavender is affected by a lethal gene which manifests itself in eye problems. This is more common in females than in males and can lead to complete blindness. The problem in this variety is worldwide. It is important not to breed with any such birds but it is generally thought that if a healthy sighted Lavender is bred with a Slate turkey, the problem does not manifest itself as much as when breeding Lavender to Lavender.

 
History

• The breed has been developed from the Slate turkey although the feathers on the Blue are an even colour with any flecks. 

Appearance

• The plumage of the Blue turkey can be either a very pale or a darker shade of sound, even blue with no other colouring.
• It is usual for the female to be a paler shade of blue than the male.
• A mature Blue male can weigh up to 11.3kgs (25lbs) and a mature female can weigh up to 8kgs (18lbs). 
• Day-old Blue poults are a clear grey -white giving a hint of blue tinge. The legs and feet are grey.   

Uses

Blue turkeys can make good meat birds. 

Did you know?

There is a very pale Blue turkey called Lavender and although this is popular very few quality Lavender turkeys exist.