Abstract
Objective: The present study was conducted to evaluate the productive performance and egg physical characteristics of two backyard-type breeds of birds.
 Design/methodology/approach: Tufted Creole Hens (TCH; 13 hens and a rooster) and Marans (13 hens and a rooster), were used in this study. Live body weight, feed intake, egg production, egg weight, egg length and egg width were measured weekly during eight weeks. Collected data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance, the main factors were breed, week and their interaction.
 Results: Marans hens were heavier and had higher feed intake than the TCH (P<0.05). The egg of the TCH was smaller (P <0.05) in weight and length with respect to that of Marans hens. TCH produced more eggs than the Marans hens (P <0.05). The week factor was significant (P <0.05) for body weight, feed intake and egg length.
 Limitations on study/implications: Further studies should be carried out to design a feeding program that would allow both breeds to express their full productive potential and maximize the return on investment in backyard production systems in Mexico.
 Findings/conclusions: Marans hens are a heavier breed due to their greater live body weight and feed intake with respect to TCH. The TCH are lighter birds but with a higher egg production when compared to the Marans.
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