I was under the impression that you shouldn't keep turkeys around chickens because of diseases. One site I read that chickens shouldn't be raised on the same pasture for several years. I have had a problem with Marecks this past year and as a result have been afraid to do any hatching of my own.

Del, The word is that Turkeys may get Black Comb (???) from being with chickens. In my entire life, I have never heard of this happening in the places I have lived and many people raise a few turkeys each year, WITH their chickens.

It is also a probability that chickens may develop an immunity to Marek's Disease if raised with a few Turkeys. I have never done this, as my Bantams's houses are just not designed for Turkeys--not even one or two. The vaccine for chickens, against some forms of Marek's, is made from a Turkey herpes virus, and causes the chickens to develop an immunity to Marek's Disease.

So, because, I too, have had Marek's Disease, I vaccinate all my chicks at hatch. I still lose an older bird to Marek's occasionally, that were not vaccinated. All the birds under 3 1/2 years old have been vaccinated--so far none have shown symptoms. CJR

CJR,I'm going to bring on the turkeys! There is a hatchery near here that has some beautiful heritage breeds. The less chemicals I have to use the better, I thank you very much for the information.
Del
PS I guess the next step is to look up" Black Comb"

Del, Please remember that I write only from my own experience--others may have different ones! And it is important that we share all the information. And also note that "a few Turkeys" may be the reason there has been no problem, not a commercial flock of them! And is it "Black Head"?? Good luck--and a flavorful Thanksgiving! CJR

I just looked that Blackhead up. Histomomosis(?). I think it was at Miller hatchery and Nebraska U. Ag. Extension where I found info.