Norfolk Black Turkey

Looks how to spot one

Feathers

The Norfolk Black has a fairly long and deep body, broad across the shoulders. Its plumage is a dense, matt black all over, with no other colour. The legs, feet and toenails are black, though they may turn pinkish as the bird ages. The beak is black, and the wattle is red, changing to bluish white.234

Personality what they are like

Norfolk Blacks are generally placid and calm, though temperament can vary depending on how the breeder selects and socialises them. Some lines may be more docile, others more assertive. They are not aggressive by nature and can become quite tame with regular handling.24

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These turkeys are active and enjoy roaming. They can fly and will roost in trees if given the chance. They need plenty of space to forage and exercise, and benefit from being allowed to range outdoors.4

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Basic care includes providing clean, dry housing with good ventilation, protection from extreme weather, and regular health checks. Their black feathers absorb heat, so shade and cool water are important in hot weather. In cold, wet conditions they need shelter from frostbite. No special grooming is required beyond keeping their living area clean.4

Home where they are happiest

Norfolk Blacks need a secure, predator-proof enclosure with access to outdoor range. They appreciate shelter from rain, snow and strong sun. Housing should include perches for roosting. They can adapt to most climates but require protection from extreme cold and heat. In some countries, keeping turkeys may be subject to local regulations; check with your council or agricultural authority before acquiring them.4

Company who they like around

Turkeys are social birds and should be kept in small flocks. They do best in groups of their own kind, with plenty of space to avoid bullying. Norfolk Blacks are not typically kept as single pets; they thrive in a farm or smallholding setting with other turkeys or poultry. They are not suitable for indoor or apartment living.24

The story where it all began

The Norfolk Black is a British breed of domestic turkey that traces its roots to the early 1500s. Spanish explorers brought black-feathered turkeys from the New World to Europe, and from Spain they reached England, probably around 1524. Farmers in East Anglia, especially Norfolk, selectively bred these birds for their fine meat and attractive black plumage. Over centuries the Norfolk Black became a distinct English breed. It was taken back to America by colonists in the 1600s, where it contributed to other heritage varieties such as the Slate, Narragansett and Bronze. By the 20th century the breed had declined, nearly disappearing in the UK until a rescue effort in the 1930s. Today it remains a rare, priority breed, valued by smallholders and conservationists for its hardiness, excellent flavour and historical importance.1245

Recognised by the official bits

American Poultry Association (APA)

Recognised in the Standard of Perfection in 18744

Poultry Club of Great Britain (PCGB)

Classified as a light turkey1

Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST)

Listed as 'priority' conservation status in 20261