Egg Production Potentials of Muscovy Ducks (<em>Cairina moschata</em>) Raised Under Three Management Systems in the Humid Tropics

Abstract

Egg production potentials of Muscovy duck was evaluated in three management systems; semi-intensive management system (SI), intensive management system with wallow (IW) and intensive management system without wallow (IO). Sixty female Muscovy ducks were divided into three groups of 20 each on weight equalization basis. The groups were randomly assigned to three management systems in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. Each group was replicated and raised in deep litter compartments. Ducks in IW and IO were fed ad libitum while those in SI were fed same quantity and quality of feed on a restricted basis [morning (07.00 – 08.00hours) and evening (16.00 – 18.00hours)]. Ducks in intensive management systems came into lay significantly (P<0.05) earlier, (IO, 203 days and IW, 207 days) than ducks in semi-intensive management system (248 days). Eggs from ducks in IO and IW were significantly (P<0.05) heavier (76.35 and 76.27g, respectively) than eggs from those in SI. Clutch sizes were significantly (P<0.05) larger IO and IW (19 and 18.73 eggs, respectively) than SI (16.23 eggs). There was however, no significant difference (P>0.05) between ducks in IO and IW in all the parameters measured. Ducks in the intensive management systems (IO and IW) appear to exhibit better egg laying potentials than those on Semi intensive management system.