Chocolate

The Chocolate turkey is a domestic turkey variety noted for its striking appearance and historical significance. This breed is distinguished by its rich, deep brown plumage that gleams with a subtle iridescence in the sunlight, providing its namesake chocolate hue. The feathers are often consistently colored, lacking the barring or mottling seen in some other breeds, which adds to its uniform and elegant appearance.

Originating from the Southern United States, the Chocolate turkey is primarily associated with the Antebellum period. It is a heritage breed that, while once popular, experienced a decline in numbers with the rise of commercial turkey varieties. Efforts to preserve the breed have ensured its survival, and it is now appreciated by poultry enthusiasts and small-scale farmers valuing its historical roots and unique beauty.

The Chocolate turkey is typically medium to large in size. It possesses a calm and friendly temperament, making it manageable for those committed to raising heritage breeds. While not as common in commercial meat production, the breed is valued in small farms for its moderate growth rate and flavorful meat, which is regarded as having a slightly richer taste compared to more widely bred commercial turkeys. The breed symbolizes a connection to agricultural history and biodiversity, celebrated for its contribution to the heritage turkey conservation efforts.

Colors: Rich Brown, Chocolate