Comparative Growth Performance of Kuroiler and Nigerian Indigenous Naked Neck Chickens Kept in a Tropical Environment

Abstract Chicken production is an essential venture for steady household income generation, poverty alleviation and provision of quality nutritional aids. This study was conducted to compare growth performance of Kuroiler and Nigerian indigenous naked neck chickens reared in the tropics. A total of 538 birds comprising 345 indigenous Nigerian naked neck and 193 Kuroiler chickens genotypes were sampled. Body weight and linear body measurements were observed at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10th week. Data obtained were subjected to 2-way analysis of variance using GLM procedure of SAS. There exist significant variations in chicken genotype with growth performance. Kuroiler birds significantly showed heavier mean body weight (p<0.05) at various critical growth stages observed than the Nigerian indigenous naked neck chickens reared under same conditions. The influence of genotype and sex on mean body weight and breast girth measures of chickens remain insignificant throughout early growth stages. However, at 6th, 8th and 10th week of age, Kuroiler breeds demonstrated superior growth rate and performance response compared to Nigerian indigenous naked neck fowls. Both chicken breeds exhibited differential growth patterns and sexual dimorphism in favour of male populations. Introduction and crossing of Kuroiler strains with Nigerian indigenous naked neck birds might result in better performance and adaptability.