A few months ago, I told y'all about one of our young turkeys getiing taken during the night by an animal. The next month, another was found dead in the yard, no bites marks, no sign of entrance into the coup. She was buried as a pet beneath the lilac bush. This left one lonely female crying for days. A friend told us to put guinea hens in with her. She now plays "Momma" to four young guineas and is not lonely any more. Now the house that would have been empty for the winter will be getting buttoned up against the cold somewhat and we have a 6-month turkey as tame as a pet. (Not to mention we can practically walk up to the guineas as they are no longer "wild". Our original intention wasn't to have pet turkeys, but God must have had a different plan. Thought someone would like to hear our story. Cheri on upstate NY.

-- Cheri Asprion (t.asprion@worldnet.att.net), October 08, 2001

Answers

Response to One Lonely...then she turned into a Momma

I have a pet turkey too (Earl) who really was originally meant to be Thanksgiving dinner. They really make funny pets. I tried having a mate for him, and she was just so darn mean to him and everyone, that I gave her away. Earl is happy again..and tends to consider himself a goat. I loved your story.

-- Jenny (auntjenny6@aol.com), October 08, 2001.

Response to One Lonely...then she turned into a Momma

We have Thomas the Turkey, he is meant to be for Thanksgiving but has become quite a pet. He thinks he is a Duck though. He follows the 4 ducks. When the ducks swim in the wading pool he stands in the middle of it and watches them. His legs are long enough that he doesn't get his feathers wet! I would let him stay as a pet but he does not like the rest of the family...he will chase them. He thinks I am his mother and follows me looking for goodies! Denise

-- Denise K. (Rabbitmom2@webbworks.com), October 08, 2001.