The Black Turkeys are not extensively bred in America, but in Europe is considered one of the finest turkeys for table qualities, and they are bred with success in Eastern England and Normandy in France.
Description:
The Black Turkeys should have a lustrous greenish black plumage.
The French Blacks are pure, rich black, while the Norfolk Blacks in England are dull black, with brown and even white tips showing.
The French blacks are the hardiest. In middle Europe the Black turkeys are smaller in size.
The desired weights for the variety in America are: Adult cock, 27 lbs.; yearling cock, 22 lbs.; cockerel, 18 lbs.; hen, 18 lbs.; pullet, 12 lbs.
References:
Platt, Frank L. 1925. All Breeds of Poultry, Origin: History: Description, Mating and Characteristics. American Poultry Journal. Chicago.
Photo Credit:
Mike Walters, Red Rose Hatchery, Rt. 3 Box 1409, Stilwell, OK. 74960
