Bourbonnais Black Turkey (Dindon du Bourbonnais)
The Bourbonnais Black Turkey, or simply the ‘Bourbonnais Turkey’, is a breed of completely black domesticated fowls that originated in France. Being a relatively smaller variety, they are gradually becoming famous. They are a fast growing and very hardy breed. Also, at times, the Bourbonnais may show a few brown feathers at the back. The Bourbonnais turkeys are lively and vigorous, and need farms or poultries that have plenty of space.
| Characteristics | Average to small size bird that looks very similar to the Black Turkey of Sologne, but are less heavy and more elegant; both males and females have an overall sturdy look; the tursy is dark in color but gradually lightens with age (or at times becomes rosy) |
| Plumage | Pitch black feathers with metallic sheen |
| Beard | Yes; red in color hanging loosely from the head and throat |
| Temperament | Docile, vagabond-natured, easy to tame |
| Purposes | Meat, ornamental purposes |
| Popular Traits | Hardy and extremely resistant and can stay outdoors in extreme weather conditions including rains and snow |
| Egg Production | Large eggs; Good layers with over 60 eggs every year |
| Meat Production | Extremely fine and delicate quality; 7-13 kg of meat (live market weight) |
| Diet | Fruits, breads, chicken pellets, all types of grains, and plants like nettles; they also prefer live foods like insects, and also mice and young rats; domestic chicks are often fed with eggs, buttermilk and mealworms |
| Size | Adult Tom: 10-13 kg Adult Hen: 7-8 kg |
| Country of Origin | France |
History
This breed was produced in the Bourbonnais region of France (Duché de Bourbon), from which it got its name. Not much is known about their origin though, but they are thought to have been brought to France in the early 16th century by the Jesuits.
Interesting Facts
- They are able to prey upon rodents and reptiles, including snakes.
- Birds with the sign of any other color in the feathers other than black are disqualified.
