Performance and Husbandry Practices Evaluation of Local and Exotic Chickens in Selected Districts of Assosa Zone, Benishangul Gumuz Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Performance evaluation of chickens under farmers’ management circumstances is essential to design a fitting strategy for sustainable chicken improvement. The present study was conducted with the objectives of evaluating the production and reproductive performances of local and exotic chickens under the backyard production system in the three districts (Abramo, Buldiglu, and Homesha) of Assosa Zone from January to the end of June 2024. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 260 households (HHs) using semi-structured questionnaires. The study revealed that the majority (49.7%) of HHs own both chicken types, while indigenous and exotic chickens accounted for 23.8 % and 26.5%, respectively. Sasso dual-purpose chickens significantly (p < 0.05) outstripped indigenous chickens in terms of first laying, body weight at maturity, annual egg production, and average egg weight traits. Sasso dual-purpose chickens had an earlier age at first laying (5.38 months) than the local breeds (6.72 months), and the variation was significant (p<0.001). Compared to indigenous chicken breeds, Sasso breeds had significantly (p < 0.05) heavier body weights at maturity by 0.36 kg, laid 164 more eggs per year, and had average egg weights that were greater by 11.81 g. Irrespective of the potential for improved breeds, the major constraints of poultry production identified in the study were disease outbreaks, feed shortages, and predators, in that order of importance. To improve overall chicken production and productivity, it is indispensable to implement measures such as improving feed resources and feeding, watering, health management, and marketing efficiency, preferably through the delivery of consecutive training.