Provide Clean Water and Feed

Supply fresh, clean water daily in sanitized drinkers and store feed in sealed, rodent-proof containers to prevent mold and contamination. Dirty water harbors bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, while moldy feed produces aflatoxins that suppress the immune system and cause liver damage in turkeys.

Why It Works

Turkeys consume 2-3 times more water than feed by weight, making water quality a primary health factor. Biofilm builds up in waterers within 24 hours, creating a breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria. Sealed feed storage keeps moisture below the 14% threshold that triggers Aspergillus mold growth and aflatoxin production. Elevated feeders and waterers prevent fecal contamination from litter.

Tips

• Scrub and disinfect waterers every 1-2 days to prevent biofilm formation
• Elevate feeders and waterers to the birds' back height to reduce contamination from droppings and bedding
• Discard any feed that smells musty or shows visible mold — aflatoxin levels as low as 200 ppb can immunosuppress turkeys