Journal of Natural Sciences Research www.iiste.org ISSN 2224-3186 (Paper) ISSN 2225-0921 (Online) Vol.7, No.8, 2017 103 Characterization of Local Chickens in Akwa Ibom State Using Hatch Weights U. H. Udoh* + and P. M. Eko* *Department of Animal Science, University of Uyo, Nigeria. + Corresponding author: utibudy4good@yahoo.com Abstract This study was conducted to determine hatch weights of male and female local chickens in Akwa Ibom State; to evaluate the effects of hatch batch on hatch weights and also characterize local chickens in Akwa Ibom state using hatch weights. A total of 84 local chickens (60 pullets and 24 cocks) used for the experiment were purchased from Uyo, Nsit Atai, Eket and Ikot Ekpene Local Government Areas. Chickens from all localities were assembled on deep litter to generate a broad-based population for random mating. Mating ratio of males and females was maintained at 1:5 to ensure fertilization of eggs. From inception, chickens were fed growers mash (15% CP). Feed was changed to layer’s mash (16.5% CP) when 5% egg production was attained. At 4 months egg production, collection of egg for incubation commenced. Data were collected on hatch weights of male and females chicks. Means and ranges were computed for hatch batches and sexes. Significant means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. Mean hatch weights ranged between 22.33±0.75 and 27.03±0.82. Mean hatch weight of 25.99±0.61 for males was significantly higher (P<0.05) than 24.53±0.66 for females. Hatch weights of local chickens in Akwa Ibom State are low. Hatch batches had no effects on hatch weights. Variations observed in hatch weights constitute a valuable genetic resource for breeding programmes and in designing proper conservation strategies. Key Words: Local chickens, hatch weights, characterization, conservation. 1. Introduction The productivity of local chickens in Nigeria has been reported (Ibe, 1990 and Udoh et al., 2012) to be low. The low productivity has been attributed to lack of improved local chicken breeds, the presence of predators, incidence of diseases, poor feeding, and management factors (Alemu, 1997). Hence the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) of United Nations proposed an integrated programme for the global management of genetic resources on an international level. The main objective was to assist countries by providing extensive research databases and guidelines for better characterization, conservation and utilization of animal genetic resources. Accordingly, this study sought to unearth the variations in hatch weight of local chickens in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Hatch weight is most reliable in predicting body weight at first egg of local chickens (Udoh and John- Jaja, 2014). Characterization includes a clear definition of the genetic attributes of an animal’s specie or breed, which has a unique genetic identity and the environment to which species or breed populations are adapted or known to be particularly or not adapted at all (Rege, 1992). The rural poultry population in most African countries accounts for more than 60 percent of the total national poultry population (Sonaiya, 1997). However, adequate attention has not been given to evaluating these resources or setting up realistic and optimum breeding goals for their improvement. An increasing loss of genetic diversity has been observed for all agriculturally used species (Frankham, 1994 and Hammond, 1994) and poultry genetic resources are considered to be the most endangered (Romanou et al., 1996). More particularly, it is estimated that 35% of mammalian breeds and 63% of avian breeds are at the risk of extinction and that two breeds are lost every week (FAO, 2000a). Local chickens in Akwa Ibom State have not been characterized. They have been found to vary widely in hatch weight and other phenotypic characteristics (Mogesse, 2007). Their genetic resources are becoming seriously endangered owing to the high rate of genetic erosion from diseases. The extensive and random distribution of exotic breeds by government, non-governmental organizations and individuals is also believed to dilute the indigenous genetic stock. If this trend continues, the gene pool of local chickens in Akwa Ibom State would be lost in the near future before they are described and documented. Characterization, conservation and use of indigenous animal resources under low levels of inputs in the tropics are usually more productive than in the case with exotic breeds. The locally adapted animals are also more readily available to resource - poor farmers. These animals can be productive without high disease control inputs. Therefore, characterization, conservation and utilization of these indigenous genetic resources are of paramount importance.