Phenotypic Characterization and Husbandry of Sudanese Native Chickens in South Kordofan State

Abstract

Local chicken populations are an important source of food in Sudan's rural areas. However, their productivity is not well studied. This study was conducted to explore the phenotypic characterization of Sudanese chickens. A total of 201 household chicken farmers were randomly selected from South Kordofan State during the period from October to Distemper 2020. A questionnaire was used to collect data that include: the household profile, production systems, flock size and composition, management practices, and challenges facing chicken keeping. A sample of 120 adult birds (10 males and 100 females) was used for phenotypic characterization. Descriptive statistics using frequency procedure was used to analyze the qualitative traits. The results revealed that women with low education owned most of the chickens, but no housing, feed, or vaccines. Disease and harsh environment are the main factors affecting the culling of chickens. overall mean flock size (23±0.81) ranged between 10 to 55/households, and it was affected significantly (p < .05) by Sample area. all farmers keep one ecotype. most of the birds had a single comb (54.2%). The main shank and plumage colours were: white and brown, respectively. It appears that future genetic programs will focus on the traits of the dual-purpose chicken population.