CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.0 Background of the Study

Agriculture has continues to be the most important sector in Nigerian
economy, in term of provision of employment, inspite of its declining
contribution to the nation’s foreign exchange earnings. The types of poultry
birds that are commonly reared in Nigeria are chickens, ducks, guinea fowls,
turkeys, pigeons and most recently ostriches. The importance of protein in
our diet cannot be over emphasized, which poultry production play a vital
role in meeting up the requirements that becomes a profitable through
interim monaural. The importance of protein in diet, inadquers management
and low maintenance of the pre existing poultry farms in Delta State has
necessitated the formation of Phinomar (Nig) Ltd is suited at Ukwani Local
government Area of Delta state. However, poultry farming today is a huge
business that is split into several operations including hatcheries, pullet
farms, meat production, or egg production. The main use of chickens has
never changed, they are primarily raised for human food. In addition, their
feathers are used for making cushions, litter for fertilizers and aesthetic in a
house. In some societies, chickens are used for cock fighting in a traditional
entertainment and rituals. As the human population increases, the poultry
industry continues to strives in order to meet up with the demand for poultry
products in the market. Adjori and Denvey (2010) argued that in recent
years, poultry assume a much greater role in supplier of meat as a source of
protein for both rural and urban dwellers due to the droughts and diseases

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(Rinderpest and Trypanosomiasis) which have greatly reduced productivity
and growth of large and small ruminant animals, pork meat is forbidden in
by many region and cultures, poultry becomes most-suited favrouable meat.
Adjori Et al (2000), noted that poultry meat and eggs offer
considerable potential for bridging protein gap being experienced in African
to be precise Nigeria that requires a simple approach of production with high
returns adoptable to our environments and technology, malignity. However
poultry industry in Nigeria is undergoing very turbulent times and on the
brink of collapse, if a housie approach is not explored in soloing the
ravaging feed crises and management. More than 50% of the counties
poultry farm have closed down, about 30% were forced to reduce their
production capacity, due to shortage of feed as noted by (Esonu, et al 2001),
further opined the rising of feed cost that are manly portion origin such as
groundnut cake, fishmeal and soybean meal. There is competition between
Man and livestock for feeds, which has made price of those conventional
protein sources to have soared high. Nowadays it is becoming uneconomical
to use them in poultry feeds. (Opera 2006). Based on these issues, there is
need to look for locally available and cheap sources of feed ingredients
particularly those do not attract competition between man and livestock.
1.1 Statement of the Problem
It has said earlier that poultry husbandry has become the most
intensive sector in livestock farming that have a large population compared
to other livestock in Delta State. The effective management of poultry birds
(fowl) in Ukwurani Local Government Area of Delta State have being
continuously suffer some spectacles which includes, improper housing,

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inadequate source of water, poor management, inadequate experienced and
experts, manpower diseases outbreak, poor research information and
extension services within the locality.
1.2 Purpose of Study
The study is designed to achieve the following purpose:
1. To identify the management of poultry birds (fowl) breeds raised in
Ukwani Local Government Area of Delta State.
2. To identify associated problems confronting management of birds in
Ukwani local Government Area Delta State.
3. To profound solution to the predominant problems.
4. To make recommendations based on the finding and results obtained
from the study
1.3 Research Questions
A research questions were used to determine the approach of
management of poultry in Ukwani Local Government Area of Delta State.
1. How can the amount of capital invested in the business, affects the
management of poultry birds (fowl)
2. Does this system approach serve in meeting consumers needs for
birds meat
3. How can good management help to improve the managing of birds
(fowl)?

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1.4 Operational Definition of Terms
Birds: A young creature that is covered with feathers and two (2) wings and
two legs
Fowl: Are birds belonging to one of two biological orders, namely the
gamefowl or landfowl (Galliformes) and the waterfowl (Anseriformes).
Breed: A ground of animals of the same species capable of mating to prduce
fertile offspring
Brood: The ability of a bird to sit on egg to hatch them
Disease: Illness, disorder of the body or mid or of plant or animals, parts
Poultry: Chicken, turkey, geese, kept for their meat or eggs
Pulley: A young female chicken, especially one that is less than one year old
Protein: A young substance found in eggs, fish some vegetable etc. and
which form part of bodily tissue and is an important part of the diet

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 CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Concept of Management of poultry birds (Fowl)
The term management of poultry birds (fowl) have attracted the
attention of many scholars and authors all over the world.
2.1 Management of poultry birds (Fowl)
Oluyemi and Robert (2002), observed that large numbers of fowls are
found roaming all over our communities, villages, towns , and cities. Joean-
Michel (2002), noted that with a little background knowledge of poultry
birds, domesticated (fowls) can be damaged. Fasani (2003), viewed that the
management of rearing poultry birds (fowls) on the areas of management is
advantageous aspect due to its less expense in both money and labour cost
for the farmers to be able to manage the birds. Furthermore he said that
some of the disadvantage of the management of poultry birds (fowl) the
birds are mostly expose to improper housing management, feeding on wrong
forages, prone to predators attacks and to infectious diseases. Kwartange and
Towler (2001), maintained that formerly, fowl were not involved in the
practice, but noted that in recent time, with the help of some research
scientist and expensive farmers who have engaged themselves in the brood
and sell practice of poultry bird(fowl) birds farming, certain fowl on the free
range poultry keeping production on the free range keeping production
system. According to Laseinde, CAO (2002) pointed out that the poultry
birds (fowls) are brooded from day old to four (4). However Chapman
(2003), recommended that poultry birds (fowls), proper attention is needed
to be paid on it due to the fact that birds are allowed to roam about in search

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of food, in which they may likely feed on forages, insects and worms that
may become injurious and poisonous to the fowl birds. According to
National fowls Council (2000), described free range as the practice or
system most actively supported by welfare group egg and meat production,
due to the fact that it is involving a specialty system such as a cage free
environment or other access to outdoor as alternatives to conventional
poultry housing and cages. The above authority explained further that free
poultry production is an important part of sustainable agriculture to boost
farm income while protecting the environment and addressing consumer
concerns. Karsten et al (2003) remarked that free range keeping practice
allows “extensive” production in which the birds have access to enough
space, sunlight, and free air a healthy environment that reduces stress.
Aifwo (2002), noted that free range keeping practices is a situation
where birds are kept incontinent. In his view, the birds are free to move two
place to another, further opined that it is a good system for growing poultry
bird.
2.2 Nutrition / Feed
Cole and Ronming, (2003) revealed that food is required for a number
of purposes like keeping the fowls poultry (birds) body in a condition, to
produce egg, to make the birds grads, to form muscles and as well as fat in a
table bird for consumption and this system of management of food for the
fowl poultry (bird) is generally known as Balanced Ration. FAO[2000]
suggested that for fowls poultry [birds ]to obtain high quality and quantity
of nutrients, these fowls poultry [birds ] may get nutrient from eating live
protein such as worm and other insects ,that the birds must roam on the

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pasture range in search for live worms other insects and browsing plants in
order for the birds to replace five[5]-ten[10]percent of diet.
2.3 Nutrition
Poultry diets must be formulated to provide all of the bird’s nutrient
requirements if optimum growth and production is to be achieved. There are
six classes of nutrients. Poultry convert feed into useful nutrients quickly
and efficiently. They have a relatively low environmental impact compared
with other farm animals, but their high rate of productivity means that they
do require moderately high nutrient maintenance.
2.4 Water
Water is an essential part of life for all poultry and livestock, but the
amount required for adequate health and productivity will vary depending
on the temperature in which the birds are kept, the bird’s growth rate or level
of egg production, and the individual’s ability to reabsorb water through the
kidneys. Any level of water deprivation exceeding twelve hours will have an
adverse effect on the growth of poultry and the egg production of layers.
Water deprivation exceeding 24 - 36 hours will more often than not result in
death. It is particularly important to consider water availability for chicks.
The baby chick is about 79 per cent water, and it cannot drink a lot of water
at once so it has to drink often. It’s therefore vital to provide cool, clean
water for your poultry, and ensure that it’s accessible to them at all times.
2.5 Carbohydrates
Dietary carbohydrates are important sources of energy for poultry.
Corn, wheat, and other cereal grains are the main carbohydrate component
of most poultry diets. The starch in these foodstuffs is readily digested by

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poultry, but other carbohydrates occur in varying levels of concentration in
cereal grains and protein supplements. Certain types of dietary
carbohydrates aren’t easily digested by poultry, so it’s always best to add
appropriate enzyme preparations to supplement diets of rye or barley and
improve the nutrient absorption in a non-starch based diet. If such diets
aren’t properly supplemented, they’ll contribute very little to meeting the
energy requirements of your flock.
2.6 Proteins & Amino Acids
The dietary requirements for protein are actually requirements for the
amino acids found in dietary protein. Poultry use these amino acids to fulfil
a number of functions, including using them to make up the bulk of their
structural and protective tissues such as skin, feathers, bones and ligaments.
Amino acids also help form the soft tissues including the organs and
muscles, as well as playing an important role in the metabolisation of feed
into energy. Failure to provide adequate protein in your bird’s diet will result
in a number of structural and health problems for your flock, as well as
reducing yield of meat or eggs. However, it’s important to remember that
poultry protein and amino acid requirements can vary considerably,
depending on the rate of growth or level of egg production of the individual
bird. Turkey poults and broiler chickens have high amino acid requirements
so they can meet the necessary rapid growth, for instance, and the mature
rooster requires fewer amino acids than the laying hen, even though its body
size is greater and feed consumption similar. The percentage requirements of
protein and amino acids must also increase if you keep your flock in warmer
environments, when metabolisation is far quicker. In general, protein and

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amino acid percentages are some of the trickier nutritional balances to get
right for poultry production, so it’s best to fully research the breed you’re
working with, and tailor your feed to them specifically.
2.7 Fats
Generally speaking, fat is usually added to the feed for meat-type
poultry to increase overall energy concentration, and thereby improve
productivity and feed efficiency. Feed-grade fat tends to come from different
sources, including grease from restaurants, the rendering of animal
carcasses, and the refuse from vegetable oil refining. Nevertheless, all feed
fats should be stabilised by an antioxidant to preserve unsaturated fatty
acids, and when animal tallow is added to feed at a low level, it might be
nutritionally beneficial to blend it with a small amount of vegetable oil. This
is because the metabolic value of a fat blend is better than a singular
addition. Corn is a particularly advantageous fat source because its fatty
acids are mostly unsaturated, and it usually constitutes a large portion of
existing poultry feed regardless.
2.8 Minerals
Minerals are the inorganic parts of feed or tissues. They are required
for various functions within the bird. For example, calcium and phosphorous
are vital in the formation of the skeleton, and sodium, potassium,
magnesium and chloride function to stabilise the pH levels throughout the
body. In the diet of growing birds calcium is used for bone formation,
whereas the bulk of calcium rations in laying hens is usually used to form
the eggshell. If a hen does not receive sufficient calcium in its diet for
eggshell production, it may use reserves of calcium from its skeleton, but

9
this resource will be rapidly depleted and the hen will stop laying. Backyard
producers often use oyster shells or ground limestone to add calcium to their
flock’s diet .It is easy to find general mineral supplements for addition to
poultry feed, although again, it’s best to research your specific breeding a
more in-depth way before working out percentages.
2.9 Vitamins
Vitamins tend to be classified under two different categories: fat
soluble vitamins, A, D, E, and K, and water-soluble vitamins, including the
B-complex and vitamin C. Ensuring layers are well supplied with the
vitamin A precursors known as arytenoids gives the golden yellow yolk that
consumers demand from their eggs. Vitamin C isn’t usually required as an
additional dietary supplement for poultry, as it’s already synthesized by
them. However, it has been suggested that poultry under stress respond well
to its addition in the diet. Dietary supplements for poultry tend to contain
high levels of vitamins that are considered well in excess of the minimum
requirements, so as long as your flock is receiving adequate supplement to
their feed, it is unlikely they will be deficient in any of the main
components. A more in-depth guide to recognizing various vitamin
deficiencies in poultry is included in this issue, and can be found here.

2.10.0 Factors affecting the nutrient requirements of poultry

2.10.1 Genetics (the species, breed or strain of bird) – Different species,
breeds or strains of birds have different average body sizes, growth
rates and production levels and will absorb and utilise nutrients from
feed with different levels of efficiency. Therefore, they will require
feed with different nutrient compositions. The genetics of commercial

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 poultry is constantly changing, and as a result, so are their nutrient
requirements. Consequently, breeders of commercial poultry provide
information on the specific nutrient requirements for the birds they
sell.
2.10.2 Age – nutrient requirements are related to both body weight and the
stage of maturity in bird.
2.10.3 Sex – prior to sexual maturity, the sexes have only small differences
in their nutrient requirements and males and females can usually be
fed the same compromise diet to achieve acceptable growth rates.
Differences in nutrient requirements are larger following the onset of
sexual maturity and significantly different diet formulations are then
required for each sex.
2.10.4 Reproductive state – the level of egg production in hens and sexual
activity in males will affect nutrient requirements.
2.10.5 Ambient temperature – poultry have increased energy
requirements to maintain normal body temperature in cold ambient
temperatures and the opposite in hot ambient temperatures. Food
digestion processes produce body heat, the amount of which will vary
according to the nutrient composition of the diet. This is called the
heat increment of the diet. In cold temperatures it may be desirable to
formulate a diet with a higher heat increment and the opposite in hot
temperatures.
2.10.6 Housing system – the type of housing system will influence the
level of activity of the birds and therefore their energy requirements.

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2.10.7 Health status – birds experiencing a disease challenge may benefit
from an increase in the intake of some nutrients, most commonly
vitamins.
2.10.8 Production aims – the optimal nutrient composition of the diet will
vary according to production aims, such as optimising weight gain or
carcass composition, egg numbers or egg size. Poultry that are raised
for breeding purposes may need to have their energy intake restricted
to ensure that they do not become obese.
2.11 Feeding
An important part of raising Fowls is feeding - feeding makes up the
major cost of production and good nutrition is reflected in the bird's
performance and its products. This publication discusses feeding traditional
rations as well as mixing your own rations, organic diets, and special
concerns for feeding fowls in some of the pasture-based models discussed in
the companion ATTRA publication.
2.11.1 Feeding Options
The most convenient way of feeding fowls is with a balanced pelleted
ration, whether the birds are confined indoors or allowed to range outdoors.
Most diets contain corn for energy, soybean meal for protein, and vitamin
and mineral supplements. Commercial rations often contain antibiotics and
arsenicals to promote health and improve growth, coccidiostats for
combating coccidiosis, and sometimes mold inhibitors. However, it is
possible to obtain unmediated feed-check feed labels to see if they contain
feed additives. In the industry, the feed is pelleted so the bird can eat more at
one time. Fowls are nibblers and make frequent trips to the feed trough for

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small meals, which requires energy. Pelleting reduces the amount of energy
required for a bird to feed. However, many producers of pasture-based,
"natural" poultry believe that the meat is better when the bird receives more
exercise. If the bird is eating a fibrous diet, grit such as oyster shells is
supplied to aid in grinding up coarse feed in the gizzard. Industry birds
usually don't use grit because the diet is low in fiber. Outdoor birds also pick
up small stones. Different rations are often used, depending on the
production stage of the bird. Starter rations are high in protein-an expensive
feed ingredient. However, grower and finisher rations can be lower in
protein since older birds require less. A starter diet is about 24% protein,
grower diet 20% protein, and finisher diet 18% protein (1). Layer diets
generally have about 16% protein. Special diets are available for broilers,
pullets, layers, and breeders. Whole grains can also be provided as scratch
grains. Access to clean water is important. Levels of total dissolved solids
above 3000 ppm in the water can interfere with poultry health and
production. Poultry feed ingredients include energy concentrates such as
corn, oats, wheat, barley, sorghum, and milling by-products. Protein
concentrates include soybean meal and other oilseed meals (peanut, sesame,
safflower, sunflower, etc.), cottonseed meal, animal protein sources (meat
and bone meal, dried whey, fish meal, etc.), grain legumes such as dry beans
and field peas, and alfalfa. Grains are usually ground to improve
digestibility. Soybeans need to be heated-usually by extruding or roasting-
before feeding in order to deactivate a protein inhibitor. Soybeans are
usually fed in the form of soybean meal, not in "full-fat" form, because the
valuable oil is extracted first. Whole, roasted soybeans are high in fat which

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provides energy to the birds. Fowls feed usually contains soybean meal
which is a by-product of the oilseed industry. In the industry, soybeans are
dehulled and cut into thin pieces (flaked) to improve the action of the
solvent (usually hexane) which is passed through the soybean to extract the
valuable oil. Vegetable oils such as soybean oil are used for edible and
industrial purposes. The soybean is then toasted as a method of heat
treatment to deactivate an inhibitor which would otherwise interfere with
protein digestion in the animal.
Vitamin pre-mix is usually added but may be reduced by using vitamin-rich
plant sources such as alfalfa. Other plants also provide vitamins in their
leaves, hulls, and brans. Fish oil can provide vitamins A and D. Yeast
provides some of the B vitamins. Sunlight is a good source of vitamin D for
ranging chickens (converting a precursor to vitamin D). Poultry in cattle
pastures may obtain vitamin B12 when picking through dung pats for insect
larva. Sprouting grains, although a labor-intensive process, is used by some
producers for vitamins when access to range is not possible. Sprouting can
increase the amounts of carotene (vitamin A precursor) in the grain and as a
source of year-round forage, could be an advantage for certified organic
poultry production to reduce the amount of synthetic vitamins required in
the diet. Eating plants may provide a yellow color to the skin of slaughtered
chickens and a deeper yellow color to egg yolks.
2.11.2 Feeding concerns for fowls in pasture-based models
When raising birds in a pasture-based model, it is important to keep in
mind that the digestive system of the chicken is geared towards the digestion
of insects, seeds, and grain rather than the digestion of forage, and they will

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still need concentrate feed rations to produce well. However, chickens can
make some use of high-quality forages, particularly legumes. Ladino clover
was a recommended forage in the 30's and 40's when grazing poultry was
more common. Sudan grass was used for summer grazing, oats and wheat
were used in the winter, and alfalfa provided perennial legume pasture. Joel
Saladin developed the popular "pastured poultry" model in which fowls are
pastured in floorless pens which are moved daily to fresh pasture. Feed
concentrate is provided in the pen, along with water. In this system, allowing
the birds to forage on plants, seeds, insects, and worms which reduces
concentrate feed costs by 30%. (See the ATTRA publication Sustainable
Chicken Production for more information.) Saladin does not believe that
forage species is important for poultry range. He believes that a diverse,
perennial mix of forages is key to providing nutrients. He says the forage
height is important and keeps his pasture sward at about 2 inches. If the
grass is tall, chickens in the confined field pens ("pastured poultry") tend to
mat the grass down and it becomes unsanitary. Fresh, vegetative pasture
provides more nutrients to poultry than fibrous, steamy pasture, and a good
sod pasture prevents muddy, unsanitary conditions. Some producers use
mangles, kale and even tree forage, such as mulberry or persimmon, as
poultry feed. Although feed requirements can be reduced by allowing access
to range and the accompanying insects, benefits of ranging poultry may lie
more in marketing and animal welfare rather than in the feeding.

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2.12 Poultry disease prevention and management
Routine preventative measures form the next line of defence against
disease, after providing a clean and hygienic environment through good
poultry farming practices. Preventative measures include:

 Vaccination

 Parasite control

 Identifying and treating sick birds

 Separating multi-age flocks

 Practicing routine biosecurity procedures between flocks and staff
working with them.
2.12.2 Parasite control
Birds that are housed on the floor and have access to pastures and
outdoor areas will have greater exposure to internal and external parasites.
For birds housed in these conditions, it is important to have a prevention
program in place and treat as required. This helps to minimize physical
stress and keep birds in good condition so they can resist disease. Control
parasites by:

 Regularly inspecting birds for external parasites

 Spraying or dusting birds thoroughly with an approved insecticide if

you can see lice or mites - spray the shed, perches and nests
thoroughly, making sure the insecticide gets into crevices

 Cleaning sheds and rotating ranges to prevent worms

 Regularly checking faecal material for any sign of worms

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  Always checking the label on worming treatments for withholding
periods as some are not suitable for production birds
 Consulting a veterinarian.
2.13.3 Remove sick birds
Regularly observe your birds for any signs of ill health or problems
within the flock such as feather pecking. Remove sick chickens and other
poultry from the main flock and obtain a diagnosis from a qualified person.
Sick birds usually appear different to healthy birds. You can give the correct
treatment once you identify the disease or problem. Keep ill birds
quarantined from the flock until completely recovered. If medication is
given, it is important to adhere to any withholding periods.
2.12.4 Multi-age flocks
When introducing younger birds into a flock of older birds, there is an
increased risk of disease transfer from the older birds to the younger birds.
Older birds often build resilience to diseases and disorders that younger
birds have not been exposed to. There may also be an increased risk
of feather pecking and social issues when introducing new birds to a flock. It
is preferable from a disease perspective to run single-aged flocks. However
if this is not possible and you are running multi-age flocks:

 Keep age groups separate - have an all-in and all-out system for each
age group to allow for a complete clean and disinfection of facilities
and equipment between batches

 Always start work with younger poultry and finish with the oldest.

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2.12.5 Outbreak of Diseases and Predators.
Disease can be said to be absence of health in animal, in some part of
the animals or all part of the animal. OLOMU (2003), describing disease as
the deviation from normal condition to an abnormal condition, brought
about by the effect of pathogens or nutritional deficiency. Here are basically
two factors responsible for disease outbreak in poultry namely the
2.13 Internal and External Factor.
Ofomata (2000) stated that poultry disease can be classified into
broad headings.
A. Pathogenic Disease Including:
1. Bacterial fungi, protozoa and parasites disease. Noting that bacteria
infectious diseases includes fowl typhoid, tuberculosis, fowl cholera,
infectious coryzia and anthritis.
2. Fungi disease; caused by fungus includes; mycotoxicosis,
aspergillosis, favus and thrus.
3. Protozoa disease includes: coccidiosis, blackhead,tridimoniasis,
hexamitasis and leucocytozonosis.
4. Viral disease caused by virus include: epidemic trenior (avian
encephalomyelitis),fowl pox, gumboot- infectious bursal diseases,
infectious bronchitis, Newcastle diseases, lymphoid leucosis.
5. Parasites disease include: roundworm (nematode), tapeworm
(cestodes),flukes (trematodes)
External parasites: mites, ticks, chiggerslice and fleas
Soil association (2010), also stated that disease outbreak are mostly at time
difficult to be treated but rather should be prevented and disease controlled.

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The same authority, suggested that general prevention and disease control
can be achieved under the management of fowl poultry (birds) on free range
when birds are adequately allowed to feed on forage grown for them,
adequate supply of portable drinking water and good housing structures
provided for them in all season noticed in the topics and most importantly
adequate good hygiene practices.
2.14.0 Characteristics of Poultry Birds (Fowl)
2.14.1 The Egg laying Breeds
The Egg laying according to America poultry Association (2010),
describe the birds to have ancestries that trace them to the meddler mean
class of chickens are classified by the American standard of perfection. They
have been genetically selected for high egg productivity, but usually have
same bodies that make them undesirable as meat producers. The same
bodies benefit these breeds because very few nutrients are wasted for
producing great body mass. Instead they direct more of their dietary nutrient
into the egg production. the above authority stated that the egg producing
breeds , are divided into birds that produce white shelled eggs or brown
shelled eggs .the best white shelled egg breeds are descended from the
leghorn breed with several different feather colour pattern to select from .the
best brown shell egg production breeds are developed from Rhode island
and red stock.
2.14.2 The Fowl Meat Type Breed
Esonu et al (2001) remarked that the meat type [fowl] breeds of
chicken are not really breeds at all. Instead, they are hybrid varieties or
combinations of many different breeds. the combinations breeds are selected

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to produce a variety [stain] with meat characteristic that the producer desires
most. American poultry association [2010], also asserted that some fowl
[meat] breeds grow faster and larger, while others emphasize traits like
larger breast yield more efficient feed conversion, or more disease
resistance. The strains are named after the breeding companies that
genetically developed them , like arbor acres, Peterson ross and hubbred.
The American poultry association further stressed that the weakness of these
varieties is that they do not lay as many eggs per hen as the egg laying
breed ones.
2.15.0 Problems And prospects Associated In the Management of
poultry birds (fowls)
Ayiwo and Hellins (2004) stressed and highlighted some problems
which are militating against poultry birds (fowl) production. Noting that
these problems are:
2.15.1 Inadequate of fund/Capital
Capital is an importance factor in raising any poultry business and its
plays a vital role in poultry rearing. According to Adegbola A.A (2000),
reported that credit plays an important role in modern agriculture and that
due to low level of farmers sayings, most of them are unable to accumulate
capital or lack off capital and their farming techniques has been identified as
the reason for backwardness in poultry farming.
2.15.2 Poor Educational Background
Education is power, but lack of it is a big problem. Akinsanmi (1990),
stated that when the background ion of the poultry farming is low, it tends to
pose more problems to management of poultry bird (fowl) production. He

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also stated that poorly educated farmers tend to be conservator and mistrust
in the use of modern tools. Olubaji, (2000) pointed out that the most serious
biological constraints to the achievement of poultry potential are shortage of
adequately trained and motivated people. He explained further that the lack
of skilled manpower includes, knowledge farmers, network for teaching;
directing and organizing programmes operation on the management of
poultry birds production and also he added that when agricultural poultry
farmers are given little or more educational orientation on how poultry birds
(fowls) can be managed, it assist the poultry farmers to see or give more
attention to how modern techniques can be used to boost the management of
poultry birds (fowls) in Ukwani Local Government Area of delta state.
Ononiwu (2007), stressed that the orientation of the poultry birds (fowl)
houses may affect the management employed in poultry farm and the
management employed further affects the productive capacity of fowls, He
therefore, advice that all farmers creating new poultry (fowls) building
should be encourage to seek advice from and attention course organized by
agricultural engineers and ministry of Agriculture to obtain greater
production in poultry birds (fowls) farming.
2.15.3 Improper housing Design
Oluyemi and Robert (2002), contended that the environment to which
the poultry fowls is to exposed, is determined mostly by the system of
management and does not include the design of the housing used for the
fowl poultry. He also added, that the housing must be suited to the climate
conditions and that the poultry between the temperature and tropical regions
respectively. Andy, L (2000), suggested that, for management to be

21
effective; the fixed housing system may be used; portable housing system
and the pasture per hen housing system can also be used. Uza, et al (2006),
noted that whom fixed housing design is being used for the management of
fowl poultry (birds) production, the major problem of this system is that,
unless the birds are rotated from one yard to another, access to the same
ground is continual, which may bring about outbreak to the fowls poultry
(birds) revealed that one way to help rest or rotating is double yachting:
subdividing the yard into two (2) with a fence and rotating the flock between
the yard. European Union (2006), in the legislation, allow a greater indoor
stocking destiny of about one thousand (1000) birds should contain a square
meters of about two hundred (200), if the house remain open at night and
that flaps over the exists can deter predators such as owls from entering into
the house and as well help maintain temperature in the house.
Joel, S (2009) added that the management of fowls poultry (birds), the
pasture pen looks more preferably recognized by him to be the best for
small-scale fowls poultry (birds) producers. Assured chicken production
(2010), seems to agree with the above statement, mating that the high cost of
purchasing of building materials for the construction of either the fixed
housing or portable housing system tends to put most fowls poultry (birds)
farmers away from building.
2.15 .4 Feed on Contaminated Feed /drinking of Polluted Water
Teff Kuntz, said that drinking trough are usually one serious problem
for the fowls (poultry) birds after having ,finished feeding on the pasture
food for themselves. He said that it should be of wise decision of only
drinking stuff are sometimes used on the range, where fabricated materials

22
constructed for holding water are mostly distributed throughout the range
land ground.
Water is of great importance to poultry birds Humane Farm Animal Care
(2005) stressed that the amount of quality and quantity supply of portable
drinking water given to poultry birds may in most cases also determine the
survival rate of the fowls (poultry) birds under the management of given or
supplying fowl poultry (bird) water to drink on the range ground.
National Chicken Council, reported that when holes and drinking stuff
that are fabricated are not provided to the fowls poultry (bird), the birds may
likely drink from other available sources which may be at their disposal
clean or polluted and when they drink from such polluted water, fowls may
fall sick, and at time total loss of flock may be sure to be experienced by the
poultry farmer due to improper care. In addition to the above authority also
stated that due to the fact that the fowl (poultry) birds are fast and heavy
growing breeds of birds, when water is not properly supplied or given to
them to drink, their growth may be retarded and also excess high rise in
temperature will be experienced by the fowl poultry (birds) which may
eventually lead to loss of flock on the range land. Water should be given to
the birds at all time and it should be properly handled to avoid loss of flocks.

23
 CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY
3.0 Study Area
This study was carried out in Ukuani Local Government Area of
Delta State. It is one of the 25 Local Government in Delta State. Obiaruku is
the headquarters of the Ukuani Local Government Area which is one of the
oil producing area of state it was created out of the defined Ukuani L.G.A
and occupies a land area of about 220 square kilometer, with over ninety
percent of the people being Ukuani, it is made of two clans Calabar and
yoruba each headed by a traditional ruler. The main towns are Amai,
Ezionum, Obiaruku, Emuebu, Eziokopor, Umukwata, Obinumba, And
Umutu. The people are mainly into subsistence farming; fishing and animal
husbandry. The predominant occupation of the people is farming which
encompasses growing of Arabic crop (cassava, yam) Permanente crop (oil
palm, rubber), vegetable pumpkin leave, pepper Okra, fish rearing of animal
(poultry, piggery, snailery goat. Population: it has an area of 380km2 and a
population of 200, 792 at the 2006 census (NPC 2006). Boundary: it is
bounded by Edo in the north, Ughelli North in the South East, Okpe in the
west, Ukwani in the East.
3.1 Population
The study population comprises of all the homestead poultry bird
breeders that are rearing fowls in Ukuani Local Government Area of Delta
State.

24
3.2 Sampled Population
The sampled populated includes all the total poultry farms in Ukuani
Local Government Area of Delta State.
NAMES LOCATION
KONUM FARM LTD AMAI
MONDAY OSSAI FARMS LTD AMAINGE
ABA JA FARMS LTD UMUKWATA
ISHIEKWEUE FARMS LTD UMUGBU
OPUTE FARMS LTD UMUOSELE
PATRICK FARMS LTD EZIONUM
IDOWU FARMS LTD UTAGBA UNO Kokori
CHUKS FARMS LTD UTAGBA OGBE
EBIA FARMS LTD OWA-ABBI
EZINNE FARMS LTD UMUAJA
OSCAR FARMS LTD OGBE-UKU
UGBO FARMS LTD OGBE-ANAGBA
EME JONI FARMS LTD OGBE-OTE
ADA FARMS LTD ISHIKAGUMA
IWENWA FARM LTD OGBE-IKU
EBINUM FARM LTD OGBE-NKPULAKU
EKPE FARMS LTD OGBE UMUOIDIO
UGBANAH FARMS LTD OGBEANAGBA
OTUNGBA 1 FARMS LYD UMUAJA

25
3.3 Research Instrument
The major instruments used by the researcher for data collection was a
questionnaire and interview. The questionnaire was constructed in a way
that it assists the researcher to gather the necessary information about the
types of poultry, the reason for rearing the birds (fowls) and the different
method used by farmer in the management of poultry birds (fowls) and the
problem encountered.
3.4 Sampled Techniques/ Method of Data Collection
Twenty (20) farmers were randomly selected from the total population
of poultry farmers in the study area, they responded adequately to the
questionnaire administered. However, neither respondents who could not
read nor write were interviewed and their responses recorded accordingly.
The method adopted by the researcher for the collection of data was
questionnaire which was administered to the poultry farmers through
visiting each poultry farmer. This data collected from the respondent was
subjected to statistical analysis using a percentage and frequency
distribution.

26
 CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This concerned the analysis of data based on the research question
formulated in chapter one. The research question focused on managing
poultry [birds] under free range in some selected areas within Ethiope-East
Local Government Areas of Delta State.
4.1 Section A
Table 1: Names of Farm [Poultry]
Names Number of Respondents
Emeyesi Farm 1
Elizabeth Farm 1
David Odeje Farm 1
Christor Farm 1
Gbadi Farm 1
Jeroom 1
Saleman Farm 1
Ufoma Farm 1
Grace Farm 1
Rekevwe Farm 1
Thompson Farm 1
Eniejero Farm 1
Classic Farm 1
Edafe Farm 1
Andrew Farm 1

27
Zuma Farm 1
[Link] 1
One’s Best Farm 1
Vota Farm 1
Fotts Farm 1

Table 1: showed the twenty poultry farmers responded to the questionnaire

in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State.
Table 2: Age of farm based on year of establishment
Age Frequency Percentage

14-25 13 65

26-35 6 30

36 above 1 5

Total 20 100

In Table 2: the poultry farm place between 14-25 year of age were 13, 26-35
year were [six] 36 above was one [1] while none was placed below 14.
Table 3: Research Question I; Amount of Capital Invested in the Business
Research Question Items Yes % No % Total Number of Respondents

1 15 75 5 25 20

2 17 85 3 15 20

3 10 50 10 50 20

28
 4 8 90 2 10 20

Total 60 75 25 25 80

Table 1: Shows that 60 person out 80 person responded positively

representing 75%, while 20 person responded negatively representing 25%
from the analysis can therefore be referred that the amount of capital in the
management of broiler on free range, affects profit margin, labour, cost of
pasture establishment and preventing measures.
Therefore, Research Question 1 is accepted
From the analysis, it can therefore be observed that this system serves in
meeting consumers need for broiler meat. Therefore research question 1 is
accepted.
Table 4: Research Question 2, Size of Poultry Farm
Size Frequency Percentage
Small scale 11 55

Medium scale 6 30

Large scale 3 15

Total 20 100

The above table shows that the respondents on research question 2, indicated
that 55% person out of 100 person practices small scales, 30% medium
scale were on large scale poultry farming. This implies that are still
underutilized in Ukwain Local Government Area of Delta State. Helps to
improves boiler. Therefore research question is accepted.

29
Table 5: Research Question 3: Good Management
Research Question Items Yes % No % Total Number of Respondents
1 14 70 6 30 20

2 16 80 4 20 20

3 15 75 5 25 20

4 18 90 2 10 20

Total 15.75 73.75 4.25 21.25 80

Table 5: Shows responses from the respondents. Result indicated 73.75%

out of 80 person response had positive perception representing 15.75%
persons, while 4.25% persons responded negatively representing 21.25%.
This suggests that good management has helped to improve the production
and marketing of broiler [birds]. Therefore, research question 4 is accepted.

30
 CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This research showed that good management has helped to improve
the production and marketing of broiler [birds], pasture/water and housing
affects the management of broiler on free range within Ukwani East Local
Government Area of Delta State
5.1 Conclusion
 The majority of the poultry farmers in Ukwani East Local
Government Area of Delta State are 15-25 years of age in the poultry
business.
 Majority of the poultry farmers are operating on small scale in
Ukwani East Local Government Area of Delta State .
 The amount of capital invested, in broiler poultry business on free-
range keeping practice affects the profit margin of the broiler
products.
 The constant rearing of broilers on free range will improve and
facilitate consumption needs for meat.
 Good management of broiler birds will encourage and improve the
production and marketing recommendations
After a careful analysis of the responses of the poultry farmers
The following recommendations were reached.

31
 The extension agent in Ukwani East Local Government Area, should
regularly visit the poultry farmers to enlighten them in good
management practices that will increase productivity.
 The farmer should regularly report any problem to research institute
for agricultural department in the Local Government.
 The Local Government should help the poultry farmers to enhance
production and marketing through the provision of land and other
faculties.

32
 References
Adene, D.F. (1990). An appraisal of the health management problem of rural
Poultry stock in Nigeria. In e.b. sonagiya ed. Rural poultry in Africa
proceeding international. Workshop held at Ile Ife, Nigerian 89-99
Adjovi, H. I. and Demey, J. W. (2001). Unpublished reference in chapter
Three 3 On Earthworm for poultry feed.
Aini, I. F. (1990). Indigenous chicken production in south-east asia.
World’s
Poultry science journal, 46: 51-57
Akinsami .O. (1990). Certificate of agricultural science Longman group
Limited London. America poultry association 20http;//ms
[Link]/poultry/management/poultrybestbread/hem/webmaster@
extmss taakedu.
Anthony, B. D. and Isoun, M. T. (2004). Small scale poultry business lagos;
Academy Press ltd.
Atteh, J.O. and ologbanla, N. (2000). Replacement of fish meat with
Maggots in olori v.e, and s onaiya e.b 1991 characterization of
Nigeria
Indigenous chicken. Relationship between body weights. Feed intake
And shank length, paper Presented at the 16th animal conference of the
Nig. Society for animal Production; university Sokoto, Nigeria.
Chapman, G. O. and Gage, H. (2009). Effects of free-range chickens and

33
 Geese on Insects and weeds in agroecsostem.
Cheeke, R. A.(1991). Applied Animal Nutrition: Feeds and Feeding.
Macmillan, New York, NY. 504 p.
Cole, H.A. and Running, M. J. (200). Animal agriculture education (IN.H.
Freeman And company) san Francisco.
F.A.O. (2000). Food and Agricultural organization of united Nation, Rome
Quarterly Bulletin of statistics
Fasami, F. O. (2003). Nigerian Livestock Industry and prospects for the
2003 Nig. Inst Soc. Econ. Res/feed lives Prod Comm. Seminar Joe, S
[2009] Postural poultry profit full-face, swoop VA [Link], J.A
And Towler, J.J [2001] West African Agriculture (A textbook for
School and colleges) London: Macmillan press limited.
National Research Council. (NRC, 1994). Nutrient Requirements for
Poultry. Edition. National Academy of Science, Washington, DC. Pp
155-158.
Plamondon. R. H. (1997). Feeding chickens the old-fashioned way. May-
June. Pp 51-52.

34
 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, AGBOR
DELTA STATE

LETTER TO THE RESPONDENT

Dear Respondent,
The questionnaire is designed to collect information on the
management of poultry birds (fowl) in Ukwani Local Government Area,
Delta State.
Please, accurate information is highly solicited and your information will be
treated with strict confidential. Your cooperation will be needed to achieve
the objective of the study.
Thank you.

OLISE PRINCESS CHINEBELE

35
 (Researcher)

SECTION A: General Information

INSTRUCTION: Please provide the following information where
appropriate.
Name Farm…………………………………………...
Age of farm 0-3 years [ ] 5-10 years [ ] 15 years and above
What type of poultry do you keep fowls [ ] layers [ ]
SECTION B
INSTRUCTION: Please indicate Yes or No to the question below.
Table A: Amount of capital invested in the management.
S/N RESEACH QUESTION YES NO
1. The amount of capital invested in the management of fowls on free-
range affects profit margin.
2. The amount of capital invested in this business affects labour
management.
3. Cost of pasture establishment affects fowl management.
4. Amount of capital invested preventives controls of disease outbreak
affects management of fowl?

Table B: Cooasption needs for meat

S/N RESEACH QUESTION YES NO
1. This system produces high quality meat for consumers

36
 2. Outdoor access helps in improving the taste of fowl meat.
3. Does this system produce enough meat that meat consumers need and
interest for meat buying

Table C: Disease /predators, pasture/drinking water and housing issues

S/N RESEACH QUESTION YES NO
1. Birds under the management are easily attacked by disease outbreak
2. Predators causes a lot of damage
3. Birds under the management may fall sick when fed on wrong forage
4. Drinking of polluted water brings about outbreak of diseases in fowl
poultry (birds) management
5. A solid house is a good defense against predators when the birds are
closed at night

Table D: Good management

S/N RESEACH QUESTION YES NO
1. Maximum indoor and outdoor stocking density helps in improving the
management keeping of fowls
2. Trees, tall crop roof or window over hangs serves as shelter for fowl
at night under this management keeping practices
3. Prepare facing, prevent the attacks of predators on fowl in the daytime
and night
4. Good management helps to improve the production and marketing of
fowl’s products.

37
 TITLE PAGE

THE APPROACH OF MANAGEMENT OF POULTRY BIRDS

(FOWL) IN UKWANI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, DELTA
STATE.

BY

OLISE PRINCESS CHINEBELE

NCE/17/15252

A PROJECT SUBMITED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF

AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF
THE REQUIREDMENT FOR THE AWARD OF NIGERIA
CERTIFICATE IN AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION, COLLEGE OF
EDUCATION, AGBOR

38
 DECEMBER, 2020.

CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that this research work was carried out by Olise Princess
Chinebele was supervised and approved as adequate in scope and standard
for the partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of Nigeria
Certificate in Education [NCE].

………………………….. ……………………
DR. MOSERI HILLARY DATE
[Project Supervisor]

……………………….. ……………………
MR. ABOH S.I. DATE
[H.O.D]

39
 DEDICATION
This project is dedicated to God Almighty for his infinite mercy and
grace upon me throughout the duration of my study.

40
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Words are insufficient to express my heartfelt gratitude to God
Almighty for seeing me through and making everything possible for me
during this three years programme. I wish to express my most sincere
gratitude to my dedicated supervisor Dr. Moseri Hillary for his inevitable
advice, corrections, suggestions and his personal concern at every stage of
this work, also to all my Lecturers in Agricultural Education Department,
may God bless you all.
Also appreciate the financial and moral support of my beloved parents
Mr. and Mrs. Chukwudi Olise, my sibling Basil, Chinyenum and Victory.
To my friends Jacob, Ejiro, and Stanlay who supported and stood by me,
may God continually to protect and provide for you all in Jesus name. Amen
In all, I appreciate my typist Engr. Onestevo for his effort, Advise and
encouragement.

41
 Abstract
The study determine the approach of management of boiler birds in Ukwani
Local Government Area, Delta State. boiler birds were reared in a pasture
environment was appropriate system that makes the best use of local
available resources. boiler birds reared were more, between the age of 15-
25(65%) provided. There were three production system for boiler birds
(fowl); small scale, medium scale, layer scale, while small scales boiler
owners were practices more in the area. Good management practices was a
better approach to boiler birds farming in Ukwani Local Government. A
coordinated programme involving health, hygiene and housing design issues
is suggested or recommended for the development of boiler birds in Ukwani
locality.

42
 TABLE OF CONTENT
Title page-- -- -- - -- - - - i
Certification -- -- -- -- -- -- -- ii
Dedication -- -- - -- -- -- -- iii
Acknowledgment -- -- -- -- -- -- iv
Abstract -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- v
Table of contents -- -- -- -- -- -- vi

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study -- -- -- -- -- - 1
Statement of the problem-- -- -- -- -- - 2
Purpose of the Study -- -- -- -- -- - 3
Research Question - - - - - - 3
Operational Definitions of terms - - - - 4

CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Review of Related Literature - - - - - 5-23

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Study Area- - - - - - - - 24
Population - - - - - - - - 24
Sampled population - - - - - - - 25
Research Instrument - - - - - - - 26

43
Sampled techniques/ Method of data collection- 26

CHAPTER FOUR: ANALYSIS OF DATA

Result and Discussion - - - - - - 27-30
CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conclusions - - - - - - - 31
References - - - - - - - 33
Appendix - - - - - - - - 35
Questionnaire - - - - - - - - 36

44