Hatchability and Chick Survival in Free Ranging Local Domestic Fowls of Nigeria in the Savanna
J. O. Egahi *
Department of Animal Breeding and Physiology, University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria
E. A. Rotimi
Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University Dutsinma, Katsina State, Nigeria
G. Z. Igbashal
Department of Animal Production, University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Hatchability and Chick Survival in Free Ranging Local Domestic Fowls of Nigeria in the Savanna
This study was conducted in Gwer-west local government area of Benue state, Nigeria. The study was carried out to investigate the hatchability and chick survival in free ranging local domestic fowls of Nigeria under savanna conditions. A total of 13,587 eggs were incubated under natural conditions by broody hens during the period. Results obtained revealed that hatchability ranged from 88.28 to 99.53% between the districts with an overall mean of 90.77%. Similarly, chick survival was high with a range of 50.08 to 87.90% between the districts. These birds are rated to have peculiar adaptation (s) to the prevailing limiting environmental conditions in the savanna and therefore present a focal point for indigenous poultry research and improvement.
Keywords: Adaptation, birds, eggs, environmental and poultry