Midget White Turkey
Breed Description

The Midget White turkey is a relatively recent heritage breed developed in the 1960s at the University of Massachusetts specifically to provide small farmers and homesteaders with a manageable, naturally breeding turkey suitable for small-scale production. The breed name accurately describes its defining characteristics: 'Midget' refers to the small size (hens 8-10 pounds, toms 13-20 pounds at maturity), and 'White' denotes the pure white plumage inherited from its Broad Breasted White ancestors. This purposeful development distinguishes Midget Whites from ancient heritage breeds that evolved gradually, making them one of the few modern heritage varieties intentionally created for specific management goals.

Alternate names are minimal, with 'Midget White' being the universally recognized designation. Occasionally they're called 'Small White Turkeys' or 'Miniature White Turkeys' in casual usage, though these terms lack the breed-specific recognition of the proper name. Some historical literature references them as 'Massachusetts Midgets' reflecting their development origin, though this name hasn't achieved widespread adoption. The consistency in naming reflects the breed's relatively recent development with clear documentation and standardization from the beginning.

The Midget White was created by crossing small Royal Palm turkeys with Broad Breasted Whites, combining the small size and natural breeding capability of heritage breeds with the white plumage and some meat production traits of commercial varieties. The goal was producing turkeys small enough for practical management on small farms while retaining the ability to mate naturally - a critical capability lost in Broad Breasted breeds. Dr. J. Robert Smyth led the breeding program at UMass, with the resulting birds showing remarkable consistency and suitability for their intended purpose.

Recognition and standardization of Midget Whites has been somewhat limited compared to older heritage breeds. They are not recognized by the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection, partly because they don't meet minimum weight requirements established for turkey breeds (which favor larger birds). However, they are recognized by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (now The Livestock Conservancy) which lists them as 'Critical' on their conservation priority list, reflecting very small population numbers. This conservation status has spurred interest in recent years as heritage poultry enthusiasts work to preserve and expand Midget White populations before the breed is lost.

Midget White turkeys are distinctly small, with mature hens weighing 8-10 pounds and toms 13-20 pounds - roughly half to two-thirds the size of standard heritage breeds and dramatically smaller than commercial Broad Breasted varieties. Their compact size is immediately apparent when compared to other turkeys, with birds appearing proportionally similar to standard turkeys but scaled down overall. Despite their small stature, they maintain proper turkey conformation with well-developed breasts (though not the exaggerated development of broad-breasted types), strong legs capable of supporting natural behaviors, and overall balanced proportions.

Plumage is pure white throughout, with no colored feathers, markings, or variations. This solid white coloration was inherited from Broad Breasted White ancestors and provides processing advantages as white pinfeathers are less visible in dressed carcasses than dark pinfeathers. Feathers are full and fluffy, providing good insulation and creating the classic turkey appearance. Poults hatch yellow and develop white plumage as they mature, typically being fully feathered in white by 10-12 weeks of age. Any appearance of colored feathers indicates genetic contamination from other turkey varieties.

The head and neck are bare of feathers, displaying typical turkey coloration with red, blue, and white skin that intensifies in color during excitement or breeding displays. Toms develop snoods (the fleshy appendage over the beak) that extend during display, though proportionally smaller than those of large turkey breeds. Caruncles (fleshy protuberances on head and neck) develop in both sexes but are more prominent in toms, particularly during breeding season. Most toms develop beards (modified breast feathers appearing as black tassels), though these are typically shorter and less dramatic than beards of larger breeds.

Body structure emphasizes balanced, functional conformation rather than extreme meat production. The breast is well-developed providing good meat yield for the bird's size, but not so exaggerated as to impair mobility or natural mating ability. Legs are strong and positioned properly, allowing normal walking, running, and roosting behaviors without the leg problems common in oversized commercial breeds. Wings are proportional and functional, with Midget Whites capable of flying short distances and reaching low roosts, though they're less inclined toward flight than some heritage breeds.

Sexual dimorphism is pronounced despite small overall size, with toms being substantially larger than hens and displaying more prominent secondary sexual characteristics. Toms gobble (though more quietly than large breeds), perform courtship displays with fanned tails and drooped wings, and develop the characteristic strutting behavior during breeding season. The overall impression is of a properly proportioned, attractive turkey that happens to be notably smaller than standard varieties - essentially a scaled-down version of traditional white turkeys rather than a dwarf or abnormally proportioned bird.

Midget White turkeys are renowned for exceptionally calm, gentle temperaments that make them arguably the most docile of all turkey varieties. They show minimal aggression toward handlers, are curious and interactive without being pushy or problematic, and generally coexist peacefully with other poultry and livestock. This remarkable docility appears to result partly from their small size - reduced physical capability correlates with reduced dominance aggression - and partly from selection pressures favoring manageable birds suitable for small family farms. Even toms during breeding season typically remain calmer than toms of larger breeds, though they still display natural turkey behaviors including gobbling and strutting.

Social behavior within Midget White flocks reflects standard turkey patterns but with reduced intensity of dominance conflicts. Toms establish hierarchies through displaying and posturing, but physical confrontations are less common and less violent than in larger breeds. Dominant toms mate with multiple hens while subordinate toms may sneak breeding opportunities when dominant birds are distracted. Hens maintain their own social structures through subtle interactions, typically without obvious aggression. The overall flock dynamic is notably peaceful compared to many poultry species, making Midget Whites pleasant additions to small farms and backyard settings.

Breeding behavior includes the full repertoire of turkey reproductive displays despite their small size. Toms gobble (though more softly than large breeds), perform elaborate courtship displays with fanned tails and extended snoods, strut with puffed feathers and dragging wings, and actively court hens. Critically, Midget Whites can mate naturally without artificial insemination - a capability preserved through careful selection and absolutely essential for sustainable small-scale production. Successful natural breeding distinguishes them from Broad Breasted varieties and makes them practical for operations unable to perform artificial insemination.

Hens display strong maternal instincts, readily going broody and capable of successfully hatching and raising their own poults. A broody Midget White hen is attentive to her eggs during 28 days of incubation and protective of her poults after hatching. She teaches foraging, provides warmth, and alerts poults to dangers through distinctive vocalizations. While some operations artificially incubate eggs for higher hatchability, allowing natural reproduction preserves these valuable maternal behaviors. Hens typically lay clutches of 10-14 eggs before going broody, with laying season concentrated in spring and early summer.

Foraging behavior shows active ranging when outdoor access is provided, though Midget Whites are less extensive in their ranging than larger heritage breeds. They scratch for insects and seeds, consume vegetation, catch grasshoppers and other insects, and generally take advantage of available forage opportunities. Their foraging reduces feed costs while providing mental stimulation and supporting natural behaviors. However, they require supplemental feeding meeting their nutritional needs as they cannot thrive on forage alone. The balance of foraging and supplemental feeding creates efficient, economical production while supporting welfare.

Flight capability is moderate - Midget Whites can fly short distances and reach low roosts (4-5 feet), making them more capable than commercial breeds but less inclined toward extensive flight than some heritage varieties. They prefer roosting off the ground at night, seeking elevated perches providing safety from ground predators. Most operations can contain them with 5-6 foot fencing, though motivated individuals might clear lower barriers. Their limited flight compared to larger heritage breeds simplifies management while maintaining enough capability for natural roosting behaviors. Vocalizations include typical turkey sounds with gobbling, purring, clucking, and alarm calls maintaining flock communication and cohesion.

Housing Midget White turkeys requires less space and simpler facilities than standard turkeys, making them practical for small properties and backyard operations. Each bird needs approximately 4-6 square feet of shelter space, with 5-7 being preferable for comfort and preventing overcrowding. Shelter should provide protection from rain, snow, wind, and temperature extremes while maintaining good ventilation preventing respiratory problems. Simple coops similar to those housing chickens work well for Midget Whites, though ceiling height should be at least 4-5 feet allowing comfortable roosting and adequate air circulation.

Roosting preferences should be accommodated for welfare and safety. Midget Whites naturally seek elevated roosts at night, preferring perches 3-5 feet off the ground. Roosts should be sturdy enough to support their weight (toms up to 20 pounds), wide enough for comfort (3-4 inches), and positioned allowing easy access without excessive jumping. Space roosts adequately (12-18 inches per bird) preventing crowding that could cause birds to push each other off perches. Unlike commercial breeds that may rest on the ground, Midget Whites benefit from elevated roosting protecting them from ground predators and supporting natural behavior patterns.

Outdoor space enhances welfare and productivity. Provide minimum 10-15 square feet per bird in outdoor runs, with more space being better for foraging opportunities and exercise. Fencing should be 5-6 feet high containing most Midget Whites, though occasional individuals might fly over lower barriers. Woven wire, chain link, or welded wire fencing works well. Covered runs provide protection from aerial predators (hawks, owls) particularly important for protecting smaller birds. Well-drained soil prevents muddy conditions that contribute to foot problems and parasite issues. Some operations successfully free-range Midget Whites where this is safe and appropriate.

Predator protection is essential despite their domestic nature. Midget Whites are vulnerable to numerous predators including dogs, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, opossums, weasels, hawks, and owls. Their small size makes them particularly vulnerable compared to larger turkeys. Secure housing for nighttime confinement protects against nocturnal predators. Hardware cloth (not chicken wire) provides real security on windows and vents. Covered or tall-fenced outdoor runs prevent aerial attacks. Automatic doors closing at dusk ensure birds are secured before dark when predation risk is highest. Even in suburban settings, free-roaming dogs pose serious threats requiring vigilance.

Feeding and watering equipment should be appropriately sized and positioned. Standard poultry waterers and feeders work well for Midget Whites, positioned at heights allowing comfortable access (12-18 inches off ground for mature birds). Provide enough feeding space allowing all birds to access food simultaneously, preventing competition that could cause subordinate birds to be underfed. Hanging feeders, tube feeders, or trough feeders all work effectively. Fresh water must be constantly available from waterers that maintain cleanliness while providing adequate capacity for flock size.

Nesting areas for breeding hens should provide privacy and security. Nest boxes sized 18x18 inches with 4-6 inches of soft bedding work well, positioned in quiet, darker areas of the shelter. Provide one nest box per 3-4 hens. However, broody hens sometimes prefer to nest in hidden locations outside designated boxes, requiring accommodation or gentle relocation to secure nesting areas. Managing broody hens includes decisions about allowing natural incubation versus collecting eggs for artificial hatching, balancing natural behavior preservation with practical hatchability and poult survival rates.

Integration with other poultry species generally works well given Midget Whites' gentle temperament. They coexist peacefully with chickens, ducks, and geese in mixed flocks, though separate feeding may be necessary ensuring turkeys receive appropriate nutrition. However, blackhead disease risk means turkeys housed with chickens face increased disease exposure, making separation preferable for optimal health. When mixing species, provide adequate space preventing overcrowding and allow birds to self-segregate if they choose. Monitor for any bullying or aggression requiring intervention or separation.

Midget White turkey nutrition follows general turkey feeding guidelines but with reduced quantities reflecting their smaller size. Quality commercial turkey feeds formulated for appropriate life stages provide the most reliable nutrition, though their manageable size and foraging capability make them more flexible regarding feed options than large commercial breeds. Understanding their nutritional needs while avoiding overfeeding that leads to excessive weight gain supports optimal health and productivity throughout their lives.

Starter feed (26-28% protein) should be provided from hatching through 8 weeks, supporting rapid early growth critical for proper development. Turkey or game bird starter works well, with medicated options containing coccidiostats helping prevent coccidiosis during vulnerable early weeks. Provide starter free-choice allowing poults to eat as much as they want. Fresh feed should be offered daily in clean feeders. Poults begin foraging at young ages when outdoor access is provided, consuming small insects and vegetation complementing their starter feed and supporting digestive development.

Grower feed (20-22% protein) supports continued development from 8-16 weeks as turkeys mature through adolescence. Grower formulations provide protein and nutrients supporting steady growth without pushing for the extreme rapid growth that creates problems in commercial breeds. Midget Whites grow more slowly than Broad Breasted varieties, reaching market weight around 20-24 weeks rather than 14-18 weeks. This slower growth rate reduces skeletal and cardiovascular stress while producing superior meat quality. Grower can be fed free-choice or portion-controlled depending on body condition and activity levels.

Finisher or maintenance feed (16-18% protein) supports final weight gain from 16 weeks to processing for meat birds, or provides maintenance nutrition for breeding stock. Birds being raised for meat receive finisher until processing around 20-24 weeks. Breeding stock transitions to breeder ration or quality layer feed maintaining body condition without excessive weight gain. Obesity impairs reproductive performance, making weight management important for breeding birds. Some producers use flock raiser or all-flock feeds successfully for mixed-age flocks, simplifying feeding programs.

Breeder nutrition requires attention to reproductive demands. Laying hens need enhanced nutrition with approximately 20% protein and adequate calcium (2.5-3%) supporting egg production and shell quality. Breeder rations formulated for turkeys or game birds work well. Begin enhanced feeding several weeks before breeding season optimizing body condition and nutritional reserves. Toms require good nutrition maintaining condition through breeding season's energy demands. Both sexes benefit from free-choice oyster shell or calcium supplement supporting the calcium needs of egg production.

Foraging contributes to Midget White nutrition when outdoor access is provided. Birds consume grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, worms, seeds, vegetation, and other naturally available foods. This diverse diet provides nutrients, reduces feed costs, keeps birds active and stimulated, and may improve meat flavor. However, forage alone cannot meet their nutritional needs - supplemental feeding with complete feeds remains necessary for optimal growth, health, and reproduction. The smaller size of Midget Whites means foraging represents a larger percentage of their total dietary needs compared to larger breeds.

Water consumption varies with temperature and activity, with mature birds drinking approximately 1/2 to 1 quart daily, increasing during hot weather. Clean, fresh water must be constantly available. Midget Whites are less likely to drink from dirty water sources, making cleanliness important for adequate consumption. Water intake supports all physiological functions and is particularly critical during breeding season and warm weather. Monitor consumption as reduced water intake often signals health problems requiring attention. Prevent water from freezing in winter climates using heated waterers or frequent refreshing.

Midget White turkey health management benefits from their heritage genetics, moderate size, and generally hardy constitutions. These turkeys show better overall health than commercial breeds, with fewer leg and heart problems due to their reasonable size and slower growth rate. However, they still face health challenges common to all turkeys including disease susceptibility, parasitic infections, and specific management-related problems. Their small size makes them more vulnerable to predation and potentially to cold stress compared to larger birds. Establishing preventive health programs, working with poultry veterinarians, and maintaining vigilant flock observation supports successful Midget White production.

Midget White health management is generally straightforward, with these hardy heritage turkeys showing good disease resistance and robust health when properly cared for. Their moderate size eliminates many problems affecting commercial breeds while their heritage genetics provide resilience lacking in highly selected production birds. The key lies in preventing blackhead disease through chicken separation, managing parasites appropriately, providing predator protection matching their vulnerability, and partnering with veterinarians who understand heritage poultry. Well-managed Midget Whites live productive lives of 10-15 years, providing years of egg production and multiple generations of breeding rather than the brief lives of commercial meat birds.

Handling Midget White turkeys is notably easier than handling larger breeds due to their manageable size and gentle temperaments. Mature hens can be picked up and carried easily by most adults, while even mature toms (13-20 pounds) are manageable for reasonably strong handlers. Approach birds calmly, secure one wing against the body to prevent flapping, then lift with one arm supporting the breast and the other supporting the legs and rear. Their docile nature means they typically don't struggle excessively once picked up, making routine handling straightforward even for those with limited experience.

Daily care routines include checking all birds for health issues or injuries, providing fresh feed and water, monitoring environmental conditions (temperature, ventilation, cleanliness), collecting eggs during laying season, and generally observing flock behavior for signs of problems. Walking through the flock allows close observation of individual birds, with any showing lethargy, limping, or other abnormalities examined more closely. Their manageable size makes individual health checks practical when concerns arise.

Brooding poults requires standard turkey brooding practices during the critical first 8 weeks. Newly hatched poults need temperatures of 95-100°F at the brooder, reduced by 5°F weekly until fully feathered around 6-8 weeks. Heat lamps or brooder plates provide warmth. Teach poults to eat and drink by dipping beaks in water and tapping starter feed with fingers, ensuring all are eating and drinking. Monitor closely during the first week when mortality risk is highest from chilling, starvation, or dehydration.

Breeding management includes maintaining appropriate ratios (1 tom per 8-12 hens), ensuring toms can successfully mate with hens (natural breeding succeeds with Midget Whites unlike broad-breasted breeds), collecting eggs regularly during laying season, and making decisions about natural versus artificial incubation. Allowing broody hens to hatch and raise poults preserves maternal behaviors and reduces labor but results in lower survival than artificial incubation. Many operations use mixed approaches balancing natural breeding with practical hatchability.

Seasonal care varies throughout the year. Spring brings breeding season with increased egg collection, decisions about incubation methods, and brooding poults. Summer emphasizes ensuring adequate water during warm weather, providing shade preventing heat stress, and protecting young poults from predators. Fall includes final growth for market birds and preparing breeding stock for winter. Winter requires preventing water from freezing, ensuring adequate nutrition when foraging is minimal, and providing appropriate shelter from severe weather. Their manageable size simplifies seasonal management compared to larger breeds.

Midget White turkeys are ideal for small farms, homesteads, and backyard producers seeking manageable turkeys suitable for small-scale sustainable production. They're perfect for beginners to turkey keeping, families with children, operations with limited space, and anyone wanting to raise heritage poultry without the challenges of full-sized birds. These turkeys are NOT suitable for commercial meat production competing with Broad Breasted varieties, operations seeking maximum meat production per bird, or those unable to provide predator protection for small vulnerable birds.

Legal considerations vary by location. Agricultural or rural zoning typically allows poultry, though urban and suburban areas often prohibit turkeys or limit numbers. Minimum acreage requirements may apply even in agricultural zones. HOA restrictions commonly prohibit all poultry including turkeys. Noise from gobbling toms can violate ordinances in some jurisdictions, though Midget White toms are quieter than larger breeds making them more suitable for suburban settings where any turkeys are permitted. Check all local, county, and state regulations before acquiring birds.

The financial investment includes purchase costs (poults typically $10-20 each, breeding stock $50-100 per bird depending on quality and availability), feed expenses ($15-25 per bird to market weight), housing and equipment investments (less than for larger turkeys but still substantial), and potential processing costs ($15-25 per bird at custom processors). Growing a Midget White to market weight costs roughly $20-30 in feed, significantly less than commercial breeds due to their smaller size. However, dressed birds yield only 6-15 pounds, limiting their market value compared to larger turkeys.

Conservation value makes Midget Whites particularly important despite their modest commercial value. As a 'Critical' breed on The Livestock Conservancy's priority list, every breeder maintaining quality Midget White flocks contributes to preventing extinction of this unique variety. Heritage poultry conservation provides agricultural biodiversity, preserves genetic resources potentially valuable for future breeding programs, and maintains connections to agricultural history. Breeders often find satisfaction in conservation work beyond just meat or egg production.

Midget Whites are perfect for small families seeking appropriate-sized holiday turkeys (one bird per meal rather than massive commercial birds requiring days of leftovers), homesteaders wanting sustainable breeding flocks, beginning turkey keepers learning management skills, educational programs teaching poultry husbandry, and operations with space or physical limitations precluding larger turkeys. Their gentle temperaments, manageable size, natural reproduction capability, and conservation value create unique advantages making them irreplaceable despite limited commercial viability.