Turkeys

Find me in the Animal Barn

Our Rafter of Turkeys

We’re a small but lively flock of five turkeys who’ve made our home along the Paddock Walk at Attwell Farm Park. You’ll spot us strutting proudly around our paddock, exploring the grass, and gobbling to one another throughout the day.

Once upon a time, Attwell Farm raised thousands of turkeys each year for Christmas, but today, we’re the only ones left, here simply to educate and entertain visitors. We’re much happier being part of the farm family, showing off our plumage and chatting to anyone who stops by!

At night, we’re safely tucked away in our barn to stay cosy and protected from foxes and other nocturnal visitors. During the day, though, we’re always out and about, foraging, displaying our feathers, and adding a splash of colour (and sound!) to the paddock.

IUCN Status

Not Evaluated Species that have not been assessed for their risk of extinction.

Fun Facts

🌈 Colour-Changing Heads – A turkey’s head and neck change colour depending on mood — from calm blue to bright red when excited or showing off! 💨 Surprisingly Fast – Wild turkeys can run up to 20 mph and even fly short distances at 55 mph. Farm turkeys, however, prefer a relaxed stroll. 🧠 They Recognise Faces – Turkeys can remember and recognise individual people — so if you visit often, they might start to know you! 🦴 Ancient Lineage – Turkeys have been around for more than 10 million years, with ancestors dating back to the Miocene era. 🌳 Tree Sleepers – In the wild, turkeys roost high in trees for safety — though our farm turkeys prefer perching on raised platforms instead.

Classification

Type: Birds Family: Phasianidae Group: Rafter (or flock) A social group of turkeys that forage, rest, and communicate together through calls and body displays.

Names

Male: Tom A male turkey, often recognised by his larger size, fan-shaped tail, and deep, resonant gobble. Female: Hen A female, often smaller and quieter than males, often seen leading the flock and caring for chicks. Baby: Poults Young turkeys covered in soft down, quick to learn from their mothers, and full of curiosity from day one.

Habitat

Habitat: Farmland, grassland, and woodland edges Place of Origin: North America