A review of the effect of sexual dimorphism on some characteristics of the domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus)

Abstract

Male and female domestic fowls differ in some anatomical and physiological features. For economic purposes, the feed consumption and consequent growth performance are of primary importance. The comparative feed consumption between male and female chickens and the influences of dietary energy and protein on each of the sexes are reviewed. There is also a focus on the comparative growth of the sexes in terms of body weight, muscular and structural growth. Effect of rearing the sexes separately or mixed is also highlighted.