Evaluation Of Growth And Carcass Characteristics Of Normal And Frizzle Feathered Hybrid Broilers In The Humid Tropics

ABSTRACT

This experiment was conducted to evaluate growth performance and carcass characteristics of normal (N) and frizzle (F) feathered hybrid broilers in humid tropics. Results obtained showed that the frizzle hybrid broilers weighed significantly (P<O.05) heavier (1.31kg versus 1.18kg) for the normal feathered and had higher linear body measurement (L13M) than their normal feathered counterparts. The frizzle birds also were more feed efficient and consequently, gained more in live weight. Average feed intakewas 68.1 9g/bird and 66.1 6g/bird at six weeks for the frizzle and normal feathered broilers respectively and were not statistically different. Feed conversion ratio was lower for the frizzle broilers which is an indication of better feed conversion. In the same manner, the carcass characteristics a ﾿ especially the live weight (LW), Slaughter weight (SLW) and carcass weight (CAW) were significantly higher in the frizzle hybrid broilers whereas there were no statistical difference m gizzard (GIZW) and Liver weights (LVW) for the two hybrid broilers. In general, the frizzled broiler outperformed their normal feathered counterparts with regards to both growth and carcass characteristics and may be more suitable for utilization as broilers in ahumid tropical environment.