Evaluation of the reproductive and growth performance of the Sahel local chicken in station conditions for its genetic valorization.

Abstract

In Burkina Faso, the rearing of local poultry plays a significant role in rural development and the fight against poverty. This study was conducted to evaluate the zootechnical performance of local Sahelian chickens with the aim of their conservation and genetic improvement. The experiment, carried out at the Village Poultry Promotion Center, involved 54 birds (45 hens and 9 roosters) placed in reproduction to monitor growth and reproduction parameters. A total of 591 incubated eggs were monitored, with observations on physical egg characteristics, fertility, hatchability, embryonic mortality rates, as well as average live weight (ALW) and average daily gain (ADG) of chicks. The eggshells were predominantly white (65.82%), compared to 34.18% brown shells. The eggs had an average weight of 37.30 ± 4.22 g, a length of 4.94 ± 0.14 cm, a diameter of 3.63 ± 1.35 cm, and a shape index of 74.37%. Regarding incubation performance, the fertility rate was high (89.18%), but the hatchability rate remained low (34.36%), with a notable embryonic mortality rate (22.95%). Post-hatching, the average live weights and average daily gains (ADG) increased steadily. From the second month, males showed significantly higher live weight than females (202.03 ± 54.11 g vs. 169.06 ± 54.26 g), as well as a higher ADG (4.43 ± 2.21 g/day vs. 3.58 ± 1.16 g/day; P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed during the first month. These results highlight the need for targeted technical support and selective breeding efforts to optimize the productivity of this local genetic resource with high economic and cultural potential.