The Broad Breasted White is commercially the most widely used breed of domesticated turkey. These birds have shorter breast bones and larger breasts, sometimes rendering them unable to breed without human assistance. Average birds are typically 17-18 kg (38-40 lbs). Birds often grow to larger than 18 kg (40 lbs). Because of their size, they are prone to health problems associated with being overweight (due to excess muscle),  such as heart disease, respiratory failure and joint damage. Broad Breasted Whites also have a very high percentage of its eggs hatch.

The Ridley Bronze turkey is Canada’s only surviving heritage turkey and is in danger of becoming extinct.ridleyThumb

The turkey was developed in the 1940’s by J.H. Richardson. He was looking for a large, calm, good forager with the ability to produce naturally. While a commercial turkey can reach 14 kg (32 lbs) in around 18 weeks, a heritage turkey can take up to 40 weeks to reach 11 kg (25 lbs). This difference in growth rate has had a severe effect on the numbers of Ridley Bronze, as commercial growers will be looking for quicker turn around on animals.

The Royal Palm is a breed of domestic turkey. One of the few turkeys not primarily selected for meat production, the Royal Palm is best known as an ornamental bird that is largely white with bands of metallic black. Primarily kept as an exhibition bird, or on small farms, it lacks the size for large scale commercial use. Along with the decline of most heritage turkey breeds after the adoption of the Broad Breasted White by the turkey industry, Royal Palms are a very endangered breed today. Toms usually weigh 7-10 kg (16 - 22 lbs) and the hens 4-5 kg (10 -12 lbs).