Haematological Studies in Fulani Ecotype Chickens in South-western Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted using thirty Fulani ecotype chickens selected at random from intensively raised (deep litter and caged) population of 90 birds from day old to 16 weeks. Blood was collected from the birds at week 11 and 16 and used for haematological analyses. Data generated were subjected to least squares means analysis using SAS 9.2 (Version 2008).Result revealed that the male Fulani ecotype chickens were significantly different (p<0.05) for packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC), haemoglobin (Hb). Mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) was significantly affected by polydactyly and rearing systems (RS) at 11 weeks of age.  Mean cell volume (MCV) was significantly affected by RS at week 11. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ES) and RBC were significantly affected by polydactyly RS respectively at 16 weeks of age. This study revealed that sex, polydactyly and rearing system had significant effects on some physiological parameters of Fulani ecotype chickens that could be used for future improvement purposes