By Lynne Adkins

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Thanksgiving is fast approaching, and if you haven’t ordered your fresh turkey yet, you might want to think about it.

The early birds have already placed their orders, according to Dean Frankenfield, co-owner of Godshall’s Poultry in the Reading Terminal Market.

He says the rush typically starts November 1st, with the last-minute shoppers running in on the 17th.

“Usually everyone likes the centerpiece of their table to be a whole, fresh bird, and that’s what we provide,” he explains.

(Fresh turkeys for sale at Godshall’s. Credit: Lynne Adkins)

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He says the smaller, 10-15 pound birds are quite popular, but you can order a 30-pounder if you’re having a lot of guests.

And, good news: prices are about the same as last year.

“For a fresh, free-range, local turkey, we offer those for $2.89 a pound,” he says.

According to Frankenfield, locally raised turkeys are better because they’re fresher. And remember: when they’re not frozen, they cook faster.