Socio-Economics Of Free-Range Poultry Production Among Agropastoral Women In Giwa Local Government Area Of Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

A survey of free-range poultry production by 150 agro pastoral women in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria was conducted by means of questionnaire administration and participant observations. Results of the study revealed that most respondents owned at least one poultry specie. Local chickens were found to be the commonest followed by guinea fowls then ducks. Respondents who have mixed flocks had larger holding sizes. The structural features of poultry populations owned by the respondents indicated removal of both males and females from the flocks. Matured females averaged 30.9, 33.7 and 22.4% for chickens, guinea fowls and ducks respectively. Whereas, matured males averaged 11.1, 5.9 and 12.2% for chickens, guinea fowls and ducks respectively. Chicks, keets and ducklings averaged 42.5, 52.0 and 46.2% respectively. Mating ratio in the sampled population was 2.4 hens to 1 cock. It was observed that the flocks are not closed production units. Both males and females appeared to be removed from the flocks for sale, home consumption or gift. Most chickens\' and ducks\' eggs were left to be incubated. Guinea fowls were said to be poor mothers. There is a relatively much more active market in guinea fowl eggs than of chickens and ducks due to its distinct game flavor and taste. Incomes from sales of birds and eggs serve as reserve for important household expenditures. Problems with poultry production and the desired interventions were highlighted.

Keywords: Rural poultry, Agro pastoral women, Management

Nigerian Veterinary Journal Vol. 28 (3) 2007 pp. 11-18