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The study to evaluate nutritive value of scavenged during the wet and dry season using crop
contents from 270 rural birds of different age groups was carried out. Chemical composition for
crop contents, feeds and blood component analyses were done. The effect of feed
supplementation on performance of rural birds was also assessed. Cereals were formed the
largest proportion in the crop in both the dry and wet season. Insects, worms and plant
materials were significantly (P<0.001) higher in the wet season while kitchen wastes were
significantly (P<0.001) more in the dry season. Season effect was highly significant (P<0.001)
on both physical and chemical composition of the scavenged feed. Total DM intake was
significantly (P<0.001) higher in the dry season. Supplementation led to increased body weight
gain. Gross profit margin was highest in scavenging only birds. Serum analysis showed no
significant differences in total protein and glucose levels whereas significant (P<0.001) seasonal
differences were observed for plasma albumin, triglycerides, NEFA, calcium and phosphorus
levels. From these findings it was concluded that feeds scavenged by rural birds varied with
season in availability and quality. It was also noted that supplementation to rural chickens
should be done strategically so as to realize both the biological and economical gains |
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