Evaluation of production traits and durability of improved indigenous hens in Fars province rural areas

Abstract This research was conducted with the aim of evaluating the performance of Twenty-second generation improved indigenous hens in rural areas of Fars province in two hot and cold climates. For this purpose, two counties per climatic region, 3 villages per county and 4 families per each village were covered for a period of 72 weeks. Each family received twenty one 45-day old chickens. During the experiment period, mortality and egg production were recorded daily. Live body weight mean of hens was measured at 8, 12, 24, 48 and 72 weeks of age. The results showed that chickens raised in hot climate produced more eggs than those in cold climate during the experiment (P<0.01). Average egg mass in months and in entire experimental period, was significantly lower (P<0.01) in cold climate (Dasht Arjan and Sepidan Counties) than hot climate (Darab and Zarindasht Counties). Average live body weight was significantly lower in Dasht Arjan compared to other Counties at 72 weeks of age (P<0.05), but no significant difference observed between climates. Durability percentage in hot climate was significantly higher that cold climate during the experimental period (P<0.01). The mortality rate in indigenous hens was relatively high (%46). The cause of most mortality was disease. The mortality rate in this generation of indigenous hens at the station for up to 72 weeks, 14.8 percent was reported.