This study aimed at evaluating productivity of laying hens of several breeds raised under a standard production practice at a poultry farm in Sana’a area during the period of 1986-1996. The study included statistical analysis of 1,134,682 hen for 48-week production cycle records of the strains: Bovans Whit, LSL-Lohman White, Hy-Line, Hisex White, ISA Brown and Dekalb White. The study evaluated effect of hen strain and source of hen day-old chicks on several productive traits (egg production, eggshell soundness, daily feed consumption, feed conversion and mortality). Results showed that Bird strain had a significant effect (P<0.05) on egg production. Hens of Hy-line strain had the highest production rate. Hen strain significantly (P<0.05) influenced both bird’s daily feed consumption and feed conversion. Birds of Bovans strain demonstrated lowest feed consumption. Both bird strain and source factors significantly (P<0.05) affected birds mortality rate with hens of Dekalb strain showing lowest mortality rate.
Download Search :PDF