Management system and performance of Yoruba and Fulani ecotype chickens in Ogbomoso North Local Government Area

Abstract

This study evaluated the management practices, production constraints, and growth performance of two Nigerian indigenous chicken ecotypes, the Fulani Ecotype (FE) and Yoruba Ecotype (YE), in Ogbomoso North Local Government Area. Data were collected from 49 poultry farmers using structured questionnaires and direct observations, while growth performance was assessed from the first to the sixth week of age through body weight and morphometric measurements. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize production systems and management practices, and growth traits were compared between ecotypes. Most farmers reared chickens primarily for meat production (84%) under traditional management systems, relying mainly on natural mating and home-formulated feeds. Disease prevalence was identified as the major production constraint, followed by inadequate farmer training and limited access to credit facilities. Growth evaluation revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the ecotypes. FE chickens consistently exhibited greater body weight, body length, chest girth, and thigh length than YE chickens throughout most of the experimental period. At six weeks of age, FE birds reached a mean body weight of 269.85 g, compared with 225.30 g in YE birds, whereas YE chickens showed relatively greater wing length at specific growth stages. Overall, indigenous chicken production in the study area remains predominantly traditional and is limited by health, technical, and financial challenges. The superior growth performance of the Fulani Ecotype highlights its potential as a valuable genetic resource for meat production and breeding programmes aimed at improving indigenous chicken productivity.