Egg quality parameters and blood biochemical profile of six strains of poultry under extensive management system in Nigerian savanna

Abstract

Six different poultry strains (Indigenous chicken, Broiler, Turkey, Geese, Duck and Guinea fowl) were
studied under extensive system of management to investigate the effect of rearing system on their egg
quality and the blood biochemical profile, respectively. Birds used for the study were obtained from four
different locations (Zangon Shanu, Bomo, Samaru and Kurmin Bomo) in Sabon Gari Local Government
Area. Eighteen (18) birds were randomly selected from the flock with three birds (3) per strain as
replicates. Three eggs were collected daily per replicate for the determination of external and internal egg
quality parameters. Blood samples (2ml) were collected from the same birds at the end of the laying phase
for the determination of blood biochemical profile, haematological parameters and cholesterol levels. Data
collected was analyzed using the General Linear Model of the SAS (2002) Software. Significant means
were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Results obtained from the study showed
that the geese had significant (P<0.05) better external and internal egg parameters for most of the
parameters, while indigenous chicken and broiler had the least results for external and internal egg
parameters, respectively. The results of haematological parameters showed that all the parameters
measured were significantly (P<0.05) different amongst the strains. However, the monocytes, eosinophiles
and bands were not significantly (P>0.05) different from each other. Hence, it was concluded that
management system had effect on egg quality parameters and blood biochemical profile in poultry strains
raised under extensive management system in Nigeria.