Turkeys For Sale
The Standard Bronze (often called the Heritage Bronze) is the true ancestral version of the American turkey. While the commercial "Broad Breasted" version was designed for industrial efficiency, the Heritage breed was developed for hardiness, longevity, and the ability to thrive in a natural farm environment.
1. Historical Context
The Standard Bronze is a product of "hybrid vigor." It originated in the 1700s when European colonists crossed the domestic turkeys they brought from England (descended from Mexican wild turkeys) with the native Eastern Wild Turkey.
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Official Recognition: It was admitted into the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1874.
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Cultural Impact: For over a century, it was the most popular turkey variety in American history until it was replaced by white-feathered commercial breeds in the mid-20th century.
2. Physical Characteristics
The "Bronze" name refers to its iridescent, metallic sheen that glimmers in the sunlight.
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Plumage: Feathers are a rich, dark brown with copper and bronze highlights. The male (Tom) is much flashier, showing glints of red, purple, and green.
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Tail & Wings: The tail feathers are distinctively barred with brown and black, ending in a wide bronze band and a crisp white tip.
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Legs & Head: Their legs are pinkish-gray in adults (darker in poults). The head and wattles are a vibrant red that can shift to blue or white depending on the bird's "mood" or temperature.
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Weight: * Mature Toms: 25–36 lbs
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Mature Hens: 16–20 lbs
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