Narragansett Turkeys

The Narragansett turkey is a North American heritage breed developed in Rhode Island, descending from a cross between the Eastern wild turkey and domestic Bronze varieties, and officially recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1874  . Named for Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island, it displays a distinctive plumage of black, gray, tan, and white feathers—sometimes with bars of white on the wings due to a unique mutation  . Mature toms typically weigh 22–28 lb and hens 12–16 lb, making them a moderate-sized dual-purpose variety prized for both meat and egg production  . Known for their calm, maternal temperament and excellent foraging ability, Narragansetts adapt well to free-range and backyard settings  . Today, they are listed as “Watch” on The Livestock Conservancy’s Priority Conservation List, with an estimated 2,200 breeding birds in the United States—reflecting both their rarity and ongoing conservation efforts  .

History & Origin

The breed originated in the early 1800s when New England farmers crossed imported Bronze turkeys with local Eastern wild stock, selecting for hardiness and foraging ability  . It quickly became the foundation of the turkey industry in Rhode Island and Connecticut, with flocks of up to two hundred birds common by the 1870s  . Although never as commercially dominant as the Bronze turkey, Narragansetts were valued for efficient feed conversion and survivability on pasture  . Recognition by the American Poultry Association in 1874 cemented its status as a true heritage variety  .

Physical Characteristics

• Plumage: A muted blend of black, slate-gray, tan, and white feathers, replacing the Bronze’s copper tones; many birds also show white wing bars from a U.S.-unique mutation  .
• Head & Neck: Mostly featherless, with skin ranging from reddish at rest to bluish-white during courtship displays  .
• Beak & Beard: Horn-colored beak and a black beard common in both sexes  .
• Shanks & Toes: Pink, matching the breed’s soft color palette  .

Size & Weight

• Toms (Males): Average 22–28 lb when fully mature  .
• Hens (Females): Average 12–16 lb at maturity  .

Temperament & Utility

Narragansett turkeys are prized for a calm, social disposition and strong maternal instincts, making hens excellent setters and brooders  . They remain close to home when free-ranged, are quick runners, capable fliers, and readily roost in trees at night  . Their dual-purpose nature—meat and egg production—combined with hearty foraging skills, makes them ideal for small-scale and backyard operations  .

Reproduction & Egg Production

Hens lay large, off-white to pale brown eggs often speckled with brown, but annual production is modest (“poor”) compared to industrial strains  . Fertility rates range from 60–75 percent under natural mating, and hens exhibit strong broodiness, typically sitting clutches without assistance  . A recommended mating ratio is about seven hens to one tom to maintain optimal fertility  .

Conservation Status & Availability

• Livestock Conservancy: Listed as “Watch” on the Priority Conservation List, indicating fewer than 2,500 annual registrations in the U.S.  .
• Population: Estimated at ~2,200 breeding birds nationwide, reflecting both historical declines and recent resurgence  .
• Availability: Rare poults and breeding stock are obtainable through select heritage hatcheries and specialty breeders, preserving genetic diversity and supporting conservation  .

Whether you’re restoring a heritage flock, seeking a flavorful dual-purpose turkey, or contributing to genetic conservation, the Narragansett turkey offers a storied history, versatile utility, and enduring charm.