Welcome to the fascinating world of Naked Neck (Turken) chickens! If you’re looking to add some personality to your backyard flock, these unusual birds might be just what you need. With their featherless necks and dual-purpose capabilities, Naked Neck chickens have become a favorite among backyard enthusiasts.
Whether you’re interested in raising them for their eggs or as meat chickens, you’ll find that Naked Neck chickens are hardy, productive, and engaging birds. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to get started with caring for and breeding Naked Neck (Turken) chickens. From their unique breed characteristics to their housing and feeding needs, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your chickens healthy and happy.
Skip Ahead
- What are Naked Neck (Turken) Chickens?
- Selecting Naked Neck (Turken) Chicks
- Housing and Space Requirements
- Feeding Naked Neck (Turken) Chickens
- Health and Wellness
- Naked Neck (Turken) Chicken Behavior
- Naked Neck (Turken) Egg Production
- Naked Neck (Turken) Meat Production
- Breed Facts and History
- Breeding Naked Neck (Turken) Chickens
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways:
- Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are a unique breed and a great addition to any backyard flock.
- They are known for their egg-laying and dual-purpose meat capabilities.
- Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are hardy and require proper care to stay healthy.
- A secure and spacious coop is essential for their well-being.
- By following these care tips, you can enjoy the benefits of raising Naked Neck chickens while appreciating their engaging behavior and historical significance.
What are Naked Neck (Turken) Chickens?
Naked Neck chickens, also known as Turken chickens, are a distinctive breed of naked feathered chickens, characterized by their featherless necks. While the rest of their body is covered in feathers, their neck is completely bare, revealing their featherless neck. This unique feature makes them easily recognizable and sets them apart from other chicken breeds.
The Turken breed is thought to have originated in Hungary in the late 19th century, although their exact origins are unclear. They were initially bred for their meat due to their hardiness and quick growth rate, but their popularity has since grown, and they are now raised for both meat and egg production.
Reasons To Raise Turken Naked Neck Chickens
They were bred for their heat tolerance and for easier picking.
They are fairly rare in North America, but very popular in Europe. The roosters usually grow to about 7 lbs (3 kgs) and the hens to about 6 lbs (2.7 kgs).
The hens will lay about 2 eggs a year. They max out at 120-140 light brown, medium eggs a year. They rarely go broody and would rather be up and about foraging.
| Climate | Personality | Use | Size | Eggs/ Yr | Brooder | Forages |
| Hot & Cold | Gentle, Calm | Meat | M: 7 lbs
F: 6 lbs | 120 | No | Yes |
Turken Chicken Physical Looks
Turken Naked Neck chickens have about half the feathers of normal chickens. Their necks are naked, as their name implies. They also look a lot like a turkey or a wild chicken.
Their red-pink necks are longer and the lack of feathers shows the entire large wattle, making it look even more prominent. Their neck turns brighter red when exposed to sunlight, but the rest of their skin is yellow. Their back is broad.
Naked Necks have a single rose comb. Turkens come in a variety of colors including black, white, buff, red, and silver.
The American Poultry Association has the breed name as Naked Neck chickens, although most people include Turken in the name because of the French Naked Neck chickens, which are a separate breed. They were admitted into the APA in 1965. They are considered a heritage breed of chicken. They can live as long as 6 years.
Featherless neck chickens are easy to care for and can be housed in both urban and rural environments. Their hardiness allows them to thrive in a wide range of temperatures, making them a popular choice for backyard chicken owners. Let’s dive into the care and facts surrounding these fascinating birds.
Selecting Naked Neck (Turken) Chicks
When it comes to selecting Naked Neck (Turken) chicks, it’s essential to choose healthy chicks from reputable breeders or hatcheries. Healthy chicks have bright, clean eyes and smooth skin. They should be active and alert. Since Naked Neck chickens are dual-purpose, you should decide whether you want to raise them for meat, eggs, or both when choosing your chicks.
If you’re planning on raising Naked Neck (Turken) chickens for meat production, select chicks with good growth rates and a sturdy frame. For egg production, choose chicks from hens known to produce a high volume of eggs or from breeds specifically developed for laying.
Naked Neck Chicken Breeders and Hatcheries
| Name | Website |
|---|---|
| Freedom Ranger Hatchery | https://www.freedomrangerhatchery.com/ |
| Cackle Hatchery® | https://www.cacklehatchery.com/ |
| Murray McMurray Hatchery | https://www.mcmurrayhatchery.com/index.html |
These hatcheries offer Naked Neck (Turken) chicken chicks as well as other breeds. Be sure to research your breeder or hatchery to ensure they have a good reputation and history of breeding healthy chickens.
Housing and Space Requirements
Proper housing and adequate space are crucial for the health and well-being of naked neck (Turken) chickens. When designing your coop, ensure it is secure and predator-proof to protect your flock from potential harm.
Each bird requires a minimum of 4 square feet of indoor space, with additional outdoor space for them to roam, forage and exhibit their natural behaviors. Therefore, if you’re planning to raise 6 chickens, you should have a coop size of at least 24 square feet, not including outdoor space.
Make sure that the coop has proper ventilation to prevent moisture and ammonia buildup. Good ventilation also helps regulate temperature and prevent respiratory problems. Nesting boxes should be provided for your birds to lay eggs comfortably and securely, and perches for them to roost. Chickens feel safe and relaxed while roosting off the ground.
It’s crucial to give enough space to the chickens to avoid overcrowding in the coops. Too many chickens together can lead to fighting, stress, and disease outbreaks. An ideal outdoor space would be 10-15 square feet of foraging space per bird to allow them to move freely without disturbance and enhance their physical and mental health.
Lastly, always ensure the cleanliness of your coop and maintain proper hygiene. Dirty and unhygienic living spaces can lead to various health problems for chickens, such as parasites, infections, and illnesses. Regularly cleaning the coop and giving your chickens access to a dust bath can help control mites and other parasites.
Raising Your Turken Naked Neck Chicken
Turken Naked Necks are super easy to raise. That’s part of why they have been so popular in Europe. Plus they handle almost any weather. Endowed with fewer feathers, they are extremely heat tolerant. Surprisingly, they are also very cold tolerant.
They do well in confinement but are also excellent foragers. They don’t fly well so they make a good backyard pet. They are also friendly, calm and easily tamed.
Turkens also don’t stress easily. They are immune to most diseases, which make them great for beginners.
Feeding Naked Neck (Turken) Chickens
Proper nutrition is vital to keep Naked Neck (Turken) chickens healthy, productive, and happy in your backyard. Feeding them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality chicken feed that is appropriate for their life stage, whether they are chicks, pullets, or mature birds, is essential.
| What to Feed | How Often | How Much |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken feed | Daily | 1/4 to 1/2 pound per bird per day, depending on age and stage |
| Kitchen scraps | As treats | Small amounts, less than 10% of their diet |
| Fresh fruits and vegetables | As treats or supplements | Small amounts, less than 10% of their diet |
Supplement their diet with kitchen scraps, fresh fruits and vegetables, and access to clean water at all times. Be mindful of their feed quantities to prevent obesity or malnutrition. Naked Neck chickens are known to forage eagerly, but make sure to provide them with enough feed to meet their nutritional needs.
Note: Be careful not to overfeed Naked Neck (Turken) chickens, as this can lead to obesity and health problems. Avoid giving them any food that may be toxic or harmful to their health, such as chocolate, caffeine, or avocado.
Health and Wellness
Keeping your Naked Neck (Turken) chickens healthy should be a top priority for any backyard farmer. Regular check-ups with a poultry veterinarian are essential to ensure their health and well-being. Vaccinations and parasite prevention medications are important preventive measures to keep your flock healthy and safe. Pay close attention to any changes in your chickens’ behavior, appetite, and egg production, as these could be indicators of underlying health issues.
It’s crucial to provide a clean living environment to prevent disease and promote wellness. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of the coop, nesting boxes, perches, and feeding areas help maintain a clean and hygienic space for your chickens to live and thrive. Additionally, providing access to dust baths helps control parasites such as mites and lice, which can negatively impact your chickens’ health and productivity.
When it comes to maintaining the health and wellness of Naked Neck (Turken) chickens, prevention is key. By incorporating regular veterinarian check-ups, vaccinations and parasite control, and maintaining a clean living environment, you can help prevent potential health issues before they arise. Take care of your featherless-necked flock, and they’ll reward you with eggs and meat, as well as their friendly and engaging personalities.
Naked Neck (Turken) Chicken Behavior
Naked Neck (Turken) chickens have a unique set of behaviors that make them an interesting addition to any backyard flock. Their featherless necks make them stand out, but their curious and active personalities make them unforgettable.
These chickens enjoy foraging and exploring their environment, always finding something new to investigate. Their curious nature can lead them to be more adventurous than other breeds, which is why it’s important to provide them with a secure coop and run.
Naked Neck chickens are known for being docile and friendly towards humans, unlike other breeds that can be flighty and skittish. They are comfortable around people and enjoy interacting with their caretakers. With proper socialization, they can even be trained to do simple tricks.
Understanding Naked Neck chicken behavior can help you foster a harmonious relationship between you and your flock. Spend time observing their actions, learning their likes and dislikes, and providing a safe and stimulating environment to keep them happy and healthy.
“Naked Neck chickens are one of my favorite breeds to raise and interact with. They are so personable and curious about everything around them. I never get tired of watching them explore their surroundings and interact with each other.”
Common Naked Neck Chicken Behaviors
| Behavior | Description |
|---|---|
| Dust Bathing | Naked Neck chickens enjoy rolling around in dirt and sand to keep themselves clean and free from parasites. |
| Foraging | They are natural foragers, constantly searching for insects, seeds, and other tasty treats on the ground. |
| Roosting | Naked Necks love to perch on high places, so providing roosts in the coop is essential for their well-being. |
| Socializing | They are very social birds and enjoy spending time with other flock members and humans. |
The behavior of Naked Neck (Turken) chickens is part of what makes them so delightful to raise. Understanding their distinct personalities and tendencies can help you foster a closer relationship with them, making your backyard flock a joyful and rewarding experience.
Naked Neck (Turken) Egg Production
Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are a popular dual-purpose breed suitable for backyard enthusiasts. While they are not prolific layers like some specialized breeds, they are consistent producers of high-quality eggs. Their dual-purpose capabilities make them appealing for those who are interested in both egg and meat production.
On average, Naked Neck hens lay around 150-200 eggs per year, which is a respectable average for a dual-purpose breed. Their eggs are typically medium to large in size and have excellent taste and texture.
It’s essential to provide Naked Neck (Turken) chickens with proper nutrition, ample living space, and access to clean water to maintain optimal egg production. Monitor their health and well-being, and consider scheduling regular veterinary check-ups.
When it comes to egg production, Naked Neck (Turken) chickens may not be the most prolific, but their robust dual-purpose capabilities make them an excellent choice for backyard flock enthusiasts.
Naked Neck (Turken) Meat Production
Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are not only dual-purpose birds but also highly regarded as meat chickens. Their succulent, flavorful meat makes them a popular choice for those seeking homegrown poultry for their table. Naked Neck chickens have a good meat-to-bone ratio and reach the marketable weight at around 16 weeks. The process of raising Naked Neck chickens for their meat requires a balanced diet and proper care to ensure optimal growth and development.
If you want to raise Naked Neck chickens for meat production, make sure you select the appropriate birds and provide them with the necessary requirements, such as a predator-proof and spacious coop. Also, ensure their diet includes high-quality chicken feed that is appropriate for their life cycle, supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and kitchen scraps. Proper care for Naked Neck chickens will ensure that they grow at a good rate and produce succulent, flavorful meat.
Expert Tip: Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are known to have a higher amount of breast meat and flavor than some other meat breeds, making them a popular choice for those looking for quality meat.
Breed Facts and History
The Naked Neck (Turken) chicken’s history dates back centuries to when they were first developed in Eastern Europe. The breed gained popularity due to their unique appearance and excellent survival skills.
One distinguishing feature of the Naked Neck chicken is their featherless neck. While some people may find this attribute peculiar, others appreciate the practicality of the bare skin, as it helps regulate their body temperature in hot climates.
Today, Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are beloved by backyard flock enthusiasts for their unusual charm and versatility. They are known for their dual-purpose capabilities, making them ideal birds for meat production and egg laying.
Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are cherished by backyard flock enthusiasts for their unusual charm and versatility.
| Breed | Weight | Egg production | Temperament |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naked Neck (Turken) chicken | 5-8lbs | 150-200 eggs per year | Friendly and docile |
Image alt text: Naked Neck (Turken) Chicken
Breeding Naked Neck (Turken) Chickens
Breeding Naked Neck (Turken) chickens can be a fulfilling and exciting endeavor for backyard chicken owners. Whether you’re interested in improving the breed or simply enjoy the process, following proper breeding techniques is crucial to maintain breed integrity and health.
When breeding Naked Neck chickens, it’s essential to select healthy and vigorous breeding stock that meets breed standards and exhibits desirable traits. Consider factors like egg production, meat quality, temperament, and featherless neck characteristics when choosing your breeding birds.
Provide your breeding birds with suitable housing and nesting spaces that are spacious, clean, and secure. Ensure that your birds receive well-balanced, nutritious meals and access to clean water and supplements like oyster shells or grit for optimal health.
When it comes to incubating or brooding eggs, maintain ideal temperature and humidity levels to encourage healthy embryo development. Keep your incubator or brooder clean and sanitized to avoid any potential contamination.
Remember that breeding Naked Neck (Turken) chickens requires dedication, knowledge, and passion for the breed. By following proper breeding techniques, you can enjoy the satisfaction of breeding healthy and genetically diverse Naked Neck chickens for your backyard flock.
“Through proper breeding techniques, you can maintain and improve the unique qualities and characteristics of Naked Neck (Turken) chickens. It’s a labor of love that results in healthy, productive, and beautiful birds.”
Conclusion
Adding Naked Neck (Turken) chickens to your backyard flock can be a transformative experience. These fascinating birds offer both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits with their unique featherless necks and dual-purpose capabilities. Providing them with proper care, nutrition, and a stimulating environment can result in good egg production and flavorful meat.
It’s important to select healthy chicks from reputable breeders or hatcheries and provide them with secure and predator-proof housing with adequate space. A balanced diet of high-quality chicken feed, supplemented with kitchen scraps and fresh produce, will keep them healthy and productive. Regular healthcare and monitoring their behavior, appetite, and egg production can prevent health issues from arising.
While Naked Neck chickens may have peculiar necks, they are charming and friendly birds that enjoy exploring their surroundings and foraging. Breeding Naked Neck chickens requires knowledge and dedication, but it can be a rewarding experience that upholds breed integrity.
To sum it up, Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are backyard favorites that offer both beauty and practicality. Consider adding them to your flock and discover the joys they bring.
FAQ
What are Naked Neck (Turken) Chickens?
Naked Neck chickens, also known as Turken chickens, are a distinctive breed characterized by their featherless necks. While the rest of their body is covered in feathers, their neck is completely bare. This unique feature makes them easily recognizable and sets them apart from other chicken breeds.
How do I select Naked Neck (Turken) Chicks?
When selecting Naked Neck (Turken) chicks, it’s important to choose healthy ones from reputable breeders or hatcheries. Look for active and alert chicks with clean, bright eyes and smooth skin. Decide whether you want to raise them for eggs or meat, as this may influence your choice of chicks.
What are the housing and space requirements for Naked Neck (Turken) chickens?
Naked Neck (Turken) chickens can be successfully raised in a backyard setting. Provide them with a secure and predator-proof coop that offers enough space for them to move around comfortably. Aim for a minimum of 4 square feet of coop space per bird, with additional outdoor space for them to roam and forage.
What should I feed Naked Neck (Turken) chickens?
Proper nutrition is essential for the health and productivity of Naked Neck (Turken) chickens. Feed them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality chicken feed that is appropriate for their life stage, whether they are chicks, pullets, or mature birds. Supplement their diet with kitchen scraps, fresh fruits and vegetables, and access to clean water at all times.
How do I ensure the health and wellness of Naked Neck (Turken) chickens?
Like any other chicken breed, Naked Neck (Turken) chickens require regular healthcare to stay healthy. Schedule regular check-ups with a poultry veterinarian and stay up to date with vaccinations and parasite prevention. Monitor their behavior, appetite, and egg production, as any sudden changes might indicate underlying health issues.
What is the behavior of Naked Neck (Turken) chickens like?
Naked Neck (Turken) chickens have interesting behavior patterns that can vary between individuals. They are generally active and curious birds that enjoy foraging and exploring their surroundings. They are known for being friendly and docile towards humans, which makes them suitable for backyard settings.
How many eggs do Naked Neck (Turken) chickens produce?
Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are known for their moderate egg production. While they may not lay as many eggs as some specialized laying breeds, they are reliable layers that produce eggs of good size and quality. On average, a Naked Neck hen will lay around 150-200 eggs per year.
Are Naked Neck (Turken) chickens suitable for meat production?
Yes, Naked Neck (Turken) chickens are highly regarded as meat birds due to their dual-purpose capabilities. Their meat is flavorful and succulent, making them a popular choice for those seeking homegrown poultry for their table. They have a good meat-to-bone ratio and reach a marketable weight in a reasonable amount of time.
What are some interesting breed facts and history about Naked Neck (Turken) chickens?
Naked Neck (Turken) chickens have an interesting history that dates back centuries. They were developed in Eastern Europe and gained popularity due to their unique appearance and hardiness. While some people find their featherless necks peculiar, others appreciate their practicality, as the bare skin helps them regulate body temperature in hot climates.
How do I breed Naked Neck (Turken) chickens?
Breeding Naked Neck (Turken) chickens can be a rewarding experience, whether you’re aiming to improve the breed or simply enjoy the process. To successfully breed them, select breeding stock that meets breed standards and exhibits desirable traits. Provide them with appropriate nesting spaces and ensure optimal conditions for incubating or brooding their eggs.