#native chicken

The Philippines’ native chickens’ role in the country’s economy was recognized as early as 1998. However, no studies have been conducted about the Philippines’ Caraga black native chicken. This study evaluated the reproductive performance of the Caraga’s black native chicken. A total of 40 heads of native chickens (eight roosters and 32 hens) aged 30 weeks old were utilized as test animals. These test animals are the product of the breeding and purification project of the Caraga black native chicken. The findings revealed that the Caraga black native chickens have an average egg production of 110 eggs per year, an average egg weight of 45.5 grams, an 85% fertility rate, an 84% hatchability rate, and a livability rate of 81%. In addition, the hen’s age was observed to affect egg production, present fertility and hatchability.

This study investigated into the practices employed by native chicken raisers in Tudela, Misamis Occidental. By surveying 150 individuals, a clear profile emerged: the majority were middle-aged men. This demographic suggests a strong potential for successful backyard farming, given their experience and dedication. The Joloano/Basilan breed proved to be the most popular choice among the raisers, primarily raised for meat production. While scavenging for natural feeds was a common practice, purchased feeds were also used to supplement their diet. However, the study identified significant challenges hindering optimal production: inadequate housing facilities and limited access to veterinary services. The findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted support to enhance native chicken production in the region. By providing specialized training programs, local governments and NGOs can equip raisers with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective management. Additionally, facilitating access to veterinary care can help prevent diseases and ensure the health and well-being of the chickens. Investing in improved housing facilities would also provide a more favourable environment for the birds, leading to better growth rates and overall productivity. Through these interventions, the study proposes a way towards sustainable and resilient native chicken farming practices. By empowering raisers and addressing their specific needs, local communities can benefit from increased food security, improved livelihoods, and the preservation of traditional agricultural practices.

The study aimed to explore the traditional practices employed by the Ilocano, Ybanag, Kalinga, and Agta (IBAKA) native chicken raisers. It used the descriptive-survey design to describe the 80 respondents’ profile, native chicken production, native chicken management, suggested training services, and problems encountered. Results show that there was a gender-balanced distribution of respondents in raising native chickens. The family structures of the respondents indicated a medium household size, with nuclear and extended families being prominent. The respondents were non-members of any organization. They possessed substantial land areas for crop cultivation as both their source of food and feed for native chickens. In addition to native chicken production, respondents engaged in other livestock and poultry raising activities, emphasizing the diversified nature of their agricultural practices. The native chicken raisers rear Improved Philippine Native Chickens and their production practices indicate a reliance on neighborhood sources for acquiring chickens. The respondents adopt a free-range system, allowing chickens to forage for their food, while the housing system is characterized by simple and open-air shelters. Corns and grains were the staple dietary choices, reflecting a cost-effective and locally available approach. Vaccination practices were limited, with the majority of respondents relying on traditional and indigenous disease control methods. The research findings suggest several implications, primarily centered around the integration of technology into local chicken farming practices and the need for programs aimed at skill enhancement among native chicken raisers.