Some observations on performance of native poultry and measures taken to increase their productivity [Philippines]
1983
Carnegie, A.B. (Zamboanga del Sur (Philippines))
Scavenging hens provide most of the poultry meat and eggs in Zamboanga del Sur [Philippines]. Data presented on egg and chicken production from 17 cooperators over a 6 month period and on chicken growth rates for 9 months. Each cooperator was issued with 10 to 20 native hens and allocates to one of two groups; Improved (I) where the native hens were bred to New Hampshire or Cornish cockerels, vaccinated against Newcastle disease and confined at night and Native (N) where only native cockerels were bred, there was no housing and the hens on half the farm were vaccinated. The (I) hens laid an average of 24 eggs per bird and (N) hens 19 eggs. Of the total eggs in each group 61% (I), 60% (N) were incubated; 18% (I), 19% (N) were eaten (some after incubation), 12% (I), 15% (N) were sold and 17% (I) and 17% (N) were spoiled. Hatchability averaged 54% (I) and 50% (N) and mortality of hatched1371 chickens 41% (I) and 29% (N), respectively. However, there was great variability both between hens and cooperators. Crossbred chickens grew considerably faster, reaching a saleable weight of 1 kg in 5 months compared to 9 months for the native chickens. There were lower mortality rates of adult birds in the improved group. The native hens' importance to the average farmer imply that steps should be taken to improve its productivity. The data reported here show some benefits of both upgrading native hens and combining this both with better feeding and better bird control. However, the variability between cooperators suggests that the main stimulus, for increased productivity may come from the management skills and enthusiasm of the far
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