Slate, or Blue Slate, turkeys are a rare heritage breed and their origins are not clear. Like the name suggests, this breed is a grayish blue in color and the result of a gene mutation. Two mutations exist, one which creates the blue color and the other produces other shades of grey and black. The color can be a solid or ashy, and sometimes have black flecks. The females are a lighter color than the males, and they lay creamy brown spotted eggs.

The meat of the Slate turkey has a rich flavor, yet the slow growth rate of heritage turkey breeds meant that they were not preferred for large scale farming. Slate turkeys are active foragers and eat a varied diet of insects and plants. They require space to exercise and are happy in a free range set up. Mature males weigh around 12 kg and the females 8 kg.