How to Build Turkey Pens

Build a pen to raise turkeys as a permanent or temporary structure. There are similarities between the turkey pen and a chicken coop, and you can use some of the same materials when you build. Make sure there is enough space and that the design helps keep away disease.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Woven wire field fence
• Chicken coop fencing
• Tarpaulin (optional)
• Wood or metal T-posts

1. Decide on a permanent or movable pen for turkeys. The movable pen lets you to control manure and grass.

2. Determine the location for the pen. When raising turkeys, have space inside to protect the young birds from weather and preying animals. Plan on 6 square feet per bird.

3. Mark off the perimeter, and place the posts at intervals frequent enough to keep the fencing fairly taught and secure.

4. Choose woven wire field fence that allows the turkeys to see out, but doesn't allow predators to get in.

5. Install the woven wire field fence around the perimeter. Build a temporary pen for turkeys by using metal T-posts that you can remove later, or use wood slats to connect the field fence for a more permanent structure.

6. Cover the top with chicken coop wire. Contrary to popular belief, turkeys can fly and can get over a fence. A top to the coop keeps turkeys safe from predators.

7. Use a tarpaulin to create a shaded area of the turkeys' pen.

Tips & Warnings

• The structure for breeding turkeys is different and should be indoors, if at all possible—warm, protected and with a place for nesting. Proper floor covering is also essential as well. Use wood shavings or peanut hulls, not anything slippery such as newspaper or plastic.
• Remember that turkeys should not share space with chickens because of the chances for disease crossover. Build a pen for turkeys that keeps them away from chickens.
• Make sure there is water and food space in the pen.

Resources

• Mother Earth News has articles about raising turkeys.