REGIS INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI SCHOOLWEEK 3: BREEDS OF POULTRY BIRDS
Introduction
Poultry farming involves the rearing of domesticated birds for meat, eggs, or other purposes. However, not all poultry birds are the same. Within each type—especially chickens—there are different breeds that possess unique physical features, productivity levels, and adaptability.
Understanding poultry breeds helps farmers select the right type for egg or meat production and for suitable environmental conditions.
This lesson focuses on the meaning of poultry breeds, types of breeds, examples of local and exotic breeds, and their characteristics.
Meaning of Breed
A breed is a group of animals of the same species that have similar characteristics such as size, colour, shape, and productivity, and that pass these traits on to their offspring.
For example:
In chickens, there are layers (for eggs) and broilers (for meat).
Each breed has different growth rates, body size, and production capacity.
Classification of Poultry Breed
Poultry breeds can be grouped according to different criteria:
According to Origin:
Local (Indigenous) Breeds
Exotic (Foreign or Improved) Breeds
According to Purpose:
Egg-producing breeds (Layers)
Meat-producing breeds (Broilers)
Dual-purpose breeds (Egg and meat producers)
LOCAL BREEDS OF POULTRY
Meaning:
Local breeds are the traditional or native birds found in rural areas. They are not improved through modern breeding techniques. They are usually hardy and can survive under harsh conditions.
Characteristics of Local Breeds:
1.Small body size and slow growth rate.
2.Low egg and meat production.
3.Resistant to common diseases.
4.Can survive on natural feed like grains and insects.
5.Commonly reared under the free-range system.
6.Require little capital to manage.
Examples of Local Breeds:
Local fowl (village chicken) – Common in most rural homes.
Local duck – Raised near rivers and ponds.
Guinea fowl – Native to Africa; known for noisy calls and dotted feathers.
Local turkey – Tough and smaller than foreign ones.
EXOTIC BREEDS OF POULTRY
Meaning:
Exotic breeds are improved or imported birds from other countries. They are usually crossbred for higher productivity in eggs or meat. They require good housing, balanced feeding, and proper management.
Characteristics of Exotic Breeds:
1.Grow faster and larger than local breeds.
2.High egg and meat production.
3. Require more care, housing, and feeding.
4.Susceptible to diseases if not well managed.
5.Commonly used in com4.mercial poultry farms.
6.Bred through scientific improvement.
COMMON EXOTIC BREEDS OF CHICKENS
A.Layers (Egg-producing breeds)
Layers are reared mainly for the production of eggs.
They start laying eggs at about 18–22 weeks of age and can lay up to 250–300 eggs per year under proper care.
Examples:
Isa Brown
Bovan Nera
Hy-Line Brown
Black Australorp
Leghorn
Characteristics of Layers:
1.Light body size.
2.Active and alert in movement.
3.Produce large quantities of eggs.
4.Consume less feed compared to broilers.
5.Feathers are usually light in colour (white, brown, or black).
B.Broilers (Meat-producing breeds)
Broilers are kept mainly for meat production. They grow very fast and are ready for market within 6–8 weeks.
Examples:
Arbor Acres
Ross 308
Cobb 500
Marshall
Hubbard
Characteristics of Broilers:
1.Large body size with thick muscles.
2.Fast growth rate.
3.Consume more feed for body building.
4.Produce tender, juicy meat.
5.Short production cycle (6–8 weeks).
6.Dual-Purpose Breeds (For Both Meat and Eggs)
C.Dual-purpose breeds can be used for both egg and meat production. They are preferred by small-scale farmers who want both benefits.
Examples:
Rhode Island Red
Plymouth Rock
Sussex
New Hampshire Red
Characteristics of Dual-Purpose Breeds:
1.Moderate egg production (150–200 eggs per year).
2.Medium body size suitable for meat.
3.Hardy and adaptable to local conditions.
4.Attractive feather colours.
5.Require moderate management and feeding.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN LOCAL AND EXOTIC BREEDS
Feature Local Breeds Exotic Breeds
Growth Rate. Slow Fast
Egg Production Low High
Disease Resistance High Low
Feeding Can scavenge for food Require balanced feed
Cost of Maintenance Low High
Management Simple Intensive
Environment Adapted to local weather May need controlled housing
IMPORTANCE OF KNOWING POULTRY BREEDS
Helps farmers choose the right birds for egg or meat production.
Ensures better farm management and feeding practices.
Helps in disease control and breeding programs.
Increases productivity and profitability.
Encourages crossbreeding for improved local breeds.
Summary
A breed is a group of animals of the same kind with similar characteristics.
Poultry breeds can be local or exotic, and egg, meat, or dual-purpose types.
Local breeds are hardy but low-yielding, while exotic breeds are high-yielding but require better care.
Farmers must choose breeds based on purpose, climate, and available resources
EVALUATION:
1.Define the term “breed.”
2.Differentiate between local and exotic breeds of poultry.
3.List three examples each of local and exotic breeds.
4.Mention three characteristics of layers.
5.State two advantages of dual-purpose breeds.
ASSIGNMENT:
1.Explain the meaning of poultry breed and state two types of classification of breeds.
2.List five examples of exotic breeds of poultry and state their uses.
3.Make a table showing four differences between local and exotic breeds.
4.Give four characteristics of broilers.
5.Describe how a farmer can improve the productivity of local breeds.