Bourbon Red

Bourbon Red

A mature Bourbon Red turkey tom

The Bourbon Red is a breed of domestic turkey named for its unique reddish plumage and its origins in Bourbon County, Kentucky. This breed is known for its striking appearance and is a popular choice among heritage turkey enthusiasts and small-scale farmers.

History

The Bourbon Red turkey was developed in the late 19th century in Bourbon County, Kentucky. It is a crossbreed of the Standard Bronze and the White Holland turkey, with some influence from the Narragansett turkey. The breed was officially recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1909.

Characteristics

Bourbon Reds are medium to large-sized turkeys, with toms (males) weighing between 23 to 33 pounds and hens (females) weighing between 14 to 18 pounds. They are known for their rich, chestnut-red plumage, which is accented by white flight feathers and tail feathers. The tail is also edged with a soft, light brown color.

These turkeys have a calm and friendly disposition, making them suitable for small farms and backyard flocks. They are also good foragers, which allows them to thrive in free-range environments.

Culinary Use

Bourbon Red turkeys are prized for their flavorful meat, which is considered superior to that of commercial breeds. The meat is known for being tender and juicy, with a rich, full-bodied taste. This makes them a popular choice for holiday meals and special occasions.

Conservation

A young Bourbon Red turkey poult

The Bourbon Red is listed as "watch" by the Livestock Conservancy, indicating that it is a breed with a limited population. Efforts are being made to preserve this heritage breed through breeding programs and increased awareness of its unique qualities.

Related Breeds

• Standard Bronze
• White Holland
• Narragansett turkey

Related Pages

• Heritage turkey
• American Poultry Association
• Livestock Conservancy