The Intestinal Microflora of Turkeys

SUMMARY Techniques were developed for the collection and processing of turkey intestinal material for microflora studies. Repeatable bacteriological procedures were developed which should be applicable to other avian species as well. Studies on the development of the bacterial flora in the intestines of apparently healthy turkey poults revealed that the alimentary tract is invaded by several bacterial species shortly after hatching. Such organisms multiply extensively and reach very high levels within 24-72 hours posthatching. Later, however, bacterial numbers slowly decrease and a characteristic gastrointestinal microflora is established early in life.