Productivity Parameters of Native Chickens in Chad

Khadidja Hassaballah, Vounparet Zeuh, Madjina Tellah, Youssouf Logtene and Mbacké Sembene

Background and Objective: Chickens are the main source of animal protein for rural populations in Chad, as well as a source of income for farmers, particularly women. The purpose of this study was to improve knowledge of the productivity parameters of indigenous Chadian chicken. Materials and Methods: The study was undertaken in three agro-ecological regions Sudanian zone in the south (West Mayo-Kebbi), the Sahelian in the North-West (Hadjer Lamis/Lac) and Guera in Central Chad]. A sample of 221 hens was monitored for 13 months for productivity parameters. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to describe the main features of a dataset such as measures of central tendency (Mean±standard deviation) and percentages. Results: The average numbers of chickens vary from 20.48 heads in Hadjer-Lamis/Lac to 28.92 in West Mayo-Kebbi and most poultry farmers raise other animals. The chicken start laying at the age of 182.22 days or 3 months with an average weight of 1.43 kg and lay 12 eggs on average, with a hatching rate of 79% and wean 6.53 chicks after 63 days. On average, hens lay 3.42 times a year. Conclusion: Throughout the study area, breeding practices and performance were characteristic of an extensive removal system.

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