Characterisation of indigenous helmeted guinea fowls in Nigeria for meat and egg production

Abstract

SUMMARY There is increasing interest in sustainable poultry production in developing economies. This review provides an insight into guinea fowl production in Nigeria as a means of additional high-quality poultry meat and egg production. Under the smallholder scavenging system, flock size of the four investigated plumages (Pearl, Lavender, Black and White) of indigenous helmeted guinea fowl in Nigeria typically ranges from 6 to 9 birds per household, 14-week mean live weight from 917 to 975 g, dressed weight at this age from 700 to 737 g and dressing percentage from 74 to 76%. Under the backyard system of production, mean egg number is typically about 80 eggs per hen/annum while under intensive management it can be up to 147 eggs per hen/annum and egg weight from 29 to 38 g. Under smallholder conditions, hatchability of fertile eggs can range from 70 to 86% while under improved housing and rearing conditions it can be as high as 89%. The present information could be exploited in formulating appropriate management strategies and breeding decisions for sustainable production of hybrid improved guinea fowls, thereby contributing to food security in Nigeria.