Narragansett Turkey

Looks how to spot one

Feathers

The Narragansett has a beautiful pattern of black, gray, tan and white feathers. The neck is steel grey edged in black, the back is metallic black with grey bands that widen to white towards the tail. The wings are barred black and white, and the tail feathers are black with tan pencil lines and a broad black band edged with steel grey and white. The beak is horn coloured, the eyes are brown, and the legs and feet are dark salmon in mature birds.25

Personality what they are like

Narragansett turkeys are traditionally known for their calm and docile nature. They can be sociable with people, often following their owners around if well socialised from a young age. However, temperament can vary depending on the breeder's selection, some lines being more aggressive, others quite gentle.25

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These turkeys are active and love to forage. They can fly well and prefer to roost in trees at night if given the chance. They need space to roam, dust bathe and exercise. A secure outdoor area with fencing is important because they are good fliers.26

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Narragansett turkeys are hardy and require minimal grooming. Provide fresh water daily, a balanced diet, and a clean, dry shelter. They benefit from regular health checks and timely vaccinations. Because their dark pin feathers can be hard to remove for the table, extra plucking effort is needed if raising for meat.26

Home where they are happiest

They need a secure coop or shelter with about 10-12 square feet per bird for sleeping, plus access to a large outdoor run or pasture. They are cold hardy and do well in cooler climates. They love to fly and roost high, so the enclosure must be covered or have high fences.26

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Narragansett turkeys are omnivores. They forage for grasshoppers, crickets, seeds, fruits and other insects. In a domestic setting, they should be given a balanced poultry feed appropriate for turkeys, supplemented with kitchen scraps and greens.32

Company who they like around

Narragansett turkeys are social and communicate with over 20 different vocalisations. They should be kept in a flock with at least one other turkey. They can be kept with other calm poultry but may need supervision. Hens are broody and will sit on eggs, often used to hatch eggs for other less broody breeds.32

The story where it all began

This variety is named after Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island, where it was developed. It descends from a cross between the eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) and domestic turkeys brought to America by European colonists in the 1600s, possibly Norfolk Black or bronze types. By the 1870s, flocks of up to 200 birds were common, and it became the foundation of the early turkey industry in New England. It was officially recognised by the American Poultry Association in 1874. However, its popularity declined in the early 1900s as the bronze turkey took over commercial production. The Narragansett is now a heritage breed, valued for its excellent foraging ability, calm temperament and good meat quality.125

Recognised by the official bits

American Poultry Association

Standard of Perfection, 18742