Outdoor Run and Pasture Space per Turkey

Provide a minimum of 20-25 square feet of enclosed outdoor run space per turkey. For pasture-raised flocks, allocate 75-100 square feet per bird and rotate grazing areas every 2-4 weeks to prevent soil depletion and parasite buildup. Fence the run at least 4 feet high, since turkeys can fly over lower barriers.

Why It Works

Outdoor space allows turkeys to perform natural behaviors such as dust bathing, foraging for insects and greens, and exercising. Birds with adequate outdoor access show lower stress, better feather condition, and fewer leg problems. Rotational grazing prevents ground from becoming barren and parasite-laden, keeping forage fresh and pathogen loads low.

Tips

• Use hardware cloth or welded wire fencing with openings no larger than 2x4 inches to exclude predators
• Cover the run or clip one wing to prevent turkeys from flying over fences
• Rotate pasture sections every 2-4 weeks and rest each section for at least 30 days to break parasite cycles