Slate (Blue Slate) turkeys are the grey-blue variety, a true colour mutation recognised in the first APA Standard of 1874 and kept mostly as an exhibition bird. The ideal is an even ash-blue body, sometimes flecked with black. Slates are known for a placid temperament and handle well, though some toms are territorial, and they are poor fliers — easier to fence than most heritage turkeys. Size and carcass finish are comparable to the Black.
Good with kids
Cold hardy
Heat tolerant
Broody
Egg colorCream Spotted
Egg production40–60 / year
TemperamentDocile
BroodinessFrequent
ClimateCold hardy, Heat tolerant
PurposeMeat And Show
Weight
Hen18 lb
Tom33 lb
How to spot it
Plumage
Slate grey-blue throughout, often with small black flecks
Legs & feet
Pink in adults; young birds often have darker legs that lighten as they mature
Look for
A blue-grey turkey with no bronze sheen and no barring
