The Effects of High Environmental Temperature on Feed Passage Time and Performance Traits of White Pekin Ducks

Abstract

Forty-eight sexed White Pekin ducks were subjected to either moderate or high environmental temperatures from 1 to 7 weeks of age. Two experiments measuring feed passage time were performed on consecutive days of each week with ducks in either the restricted or full-fed condition. Body weights and feed/gain ratios were determined weekly. Adrenal gland weights and body shell component yields were ascertained at the conclusion of the study.High environmental temperature caused an increase in feed passage time. Ducks with feed restricted for 6 hr had shorter feed passage times than did ducks in the full-fed condition. Additionally, high environmental temperature suppressed growth, had no effect on feed/gain ratios, and increased the relative weight of the right adrenal gland. Body shell component yields of ducks from the heated environment were decreased in skin and fat percentage which resulted in an increase in total wing, breast meat, leg meat, and carcass percentages.Sex had no influence on feed passage time, feed efficiency, or meat yields. Male ducks had heavier body weights and total and relative adrenal weights.