New Animals Fly Into the Coop at Happy Hollow’s Double-H Ranch 

January 20, 2022

Visitors can now play and learn about the four new Narragansett turkeys and a brand-new,  

custom-built chicken coop. 

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is excited to welcome four Narragansett turkeys and a new chicken coop to Double-H Ranch, the Zoo’s conservation-focused barn area for endangered and heritage breed domestic animals. The turkeys are named Nquit, Neesse, Nish and Yoh, which translate to one, two, three, and four, respectively, in the native language of the Narragansett people.  

“When people think of endangered species, they usually think of wildlife, but there are actually domesticated breeds, like Narragansett turkeys, that are also at risk of extinction,” says Heather Vrzal,  Zoo Curator.  

Recognized by the American Poultry Association in 1874, the Narragansett turkey is a heritage breed unique to North America and named for Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island. The breed is a cross between the Eastern Wild turkey and domestic turkey.  

“Unlike turkeys today, Narragansett turkeys have quite striking plumage,” says Rachel Atkins, Happy Hollow’s Veterinary Technician. “They have beautiful black, gray, tan, and white feathers, a black beard, and a mostly featherless head. And their necks can range in color from red to a blueish white.”  

Narragansett turkeys were domesticated for their excellent temperaments and calm disposition as well as being a source of meat and eggs. As an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoo, Happy Hollow ensures their safety and survival through conservation. Narragansett turkey toms can weigh between 22 to 28 pounds, and hens can weigh between 12 to 16 pounds. These birds are also athletic and can run quickly and fly. 

Along with this new species, the new coop is designed to look like a miniature version of the nearby barn. All the birds can comfortably live, roost, and lay eggs in the new coop with enough space while zookeepers can easily clean and provide care for the birds. Thanks to the support of Happy Hollow Foundation and the County of Santa Clara, the turkeys will be moving into this new habitat along with Happy Hollow’s current chicken flock. 

“The chicken coop was designed with convenience and comfort in mind for both the zookeepers and the birds,” says Amy Pizarro, Happy Hollow Foundation Executive Director. “We are thrilled to support this exciting upgrade for both the avian residents and human caretakers of Double-H Ranch.” 

To see the chickens and turkeys in their new home, visit Happy Hollow during current operating hours: Thursday – Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Visit www.happyhollow.org to plan your visit.