CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.0 Background of Study
Nuella chicks are a dual-purpose breed of chickens that are suitable for both egg
and meat production in tropical and subtropical regions. They are a cross between
broiler and native chickens, and have high adaptability, disease resistance, and feed
efficiency.
The growth performance of Nuella chicks depends on various factors such as
genetics, nutrition, health, and management. One of the nutritional factors that may
affect their growth is the feeding regime, which can be either ad libitum or
restricted. Ad libitum feeding means that the chicks have free access to feed at all
times, while restricted feeding means that the feed intake is limited by time or
quantity.
The grower phase is the period from 5 to 10 weeks of age, when the chicks
undergo rapid growth and development of muscles, bones, and feathers. During
this phase, the chicks require adequate amounts of energy, protein, minerals, and
vitamins to support their growth and prevent nutritional deficiencies or disorders.
The assessment of growth performance can be done by measuring various
parameters, such as body weight, weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio,
mortality, and uniformity. These parameters can be used to evaluate the efficiency
and profitability of the production system, as well as the health and welfare of the
birds.
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According to some studies, Nuella chicks fed ad libitum during the grower phase
showed better growth performance than those fed restricted diets. For example,
Ajighjigh et al. (2018) reported that Nuella chicks fed ad libitum on diets
containing different agro-industrial by-products had higher body weight, weight
gain, and feed intake than those fed restricted diets. Similarly, Ewa et al. (2016)
found that Nuella chicks fed ad libitum on a commercial diet had higher body
weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio than those fed 75% or 50% of the ad
libitum intake.
However, some studies also suggested that ad libitum feeding may have some
disadvantages, such as increased feed cost, reduced feed efficiency, and increased
fat deposition. For example, Adewole and Akinyemi (2021) reported that broiler
chicks fed ad libitum on a high-energy diet had higher feed cost, lower feed
conversion ratio, and higher relative bursa weight than those fed a normal-energy
diet. Moreover, ad libitum feeding may also increase the risk of metabolic diseases,
such as ascites, fatty liver, and lameness, especially in fast-growing breeds.
Therefore, the optimal feeding regime for Nuella chicks during the grower phase
may depend on the balance between the benefits and drawbacks of ad libitum and
restricted feeding, as well as the availability and cost of feed ingredients, the
environmental conditions, and the market demand.
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1.1 Problem Statement
To determine the effects of ad libitum feeding on the growth performance, carcass
characteristics, and meat quality of Nuella chicks during the grower phase, and to
compare them with those of restricted feeding. This problem is significant because
it can help improve the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of Nuella
production, as well as the health and welfare of the birds. The problem addresses a
meaningful gap in the literature, as there are few studies on the feeding regime of
Nuella chicks, especially during the grower phase.
1.2 Research Objectives
1. To examine the behavioral patterns, such as feeding, resting, and social
interactions of Nuella chicks fed ad libitum or restricted diets during the
grower phase.
2. To explore the perceptions and preferences of consumers and producers
regarding Nuella products from ad libitum feeding regimes.
3. Measure the body weight, weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio,
mortality, and uniformity of Nuella chicks fed ad libitum during the grower
phase.
4. Evaluate the carcass characteristics, such as dressing percentage, cut-up parts,
and organ weights, of Nuella chicks fed ad libitum during the grower phase.
5. Analyze the meat quality, such as pH, color, tenderness, juiciness, and
sensory attributes, of Nuella chicks fed ad libitum during the grower phase.
6. Compare the economic efficiency and environmental impact of ad libitum
feeding regimes for Nuella production.
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1.3 Scope of the Study
The research topic “Growth performance assessment of Nuella chicks fed ad
libitum during grower phase (5-10 weeks)” aims to evaluate the growth
performance of Nuella chicks when fed ad libitum during the grower phase. The
study will be conducted over a period of 5 weeks, starting from the 5th week of the
chicks’ life and ending at the 10th week. The chicks will be fed ad libitum, which
means they will have access to feed at all times. The study will focus on the
following parameters:
1. Body weight: The body weight of the chicks will be measured weekly to
determine the growth rate.
2. Feed intake: The amount of feed consumed by the chicks will be measured
daily to determine the feed conversion ratio (FCR).
3. Mortality rate: The number of chicks that die during the study period will be
recorded.
4. Feed cost: The cost of feed consumed by the chicks will be calculated.
The study will be conducted in a controlled environment to minimize the effect of
external factors on the growth performance of the chicks. The results of the study
will provide valuable insights into the growth performance of Nuella chicks when
fed ad libitum during the grower phase. This information can be used to optimize
the feeding strategy for Nuella chicks and improve their growth performance.
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Overview of the Poultry Industry in Nigeria
Agriculture accounts for 35% of Nigeria’s GDP according to a study
commissioned by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency. The Nigerian Poultry sub-
sector contributes about 25% of the total livestock and fisheries contribution to
GDP. The poultry sub-sector employs about 14 million Nigerians in direct and
indirect employment. Commercial poultry production is more developed in the
south-western part on the nation, but with rapidly increasing investments in the
North West and North Central geo-political zones. Nigeria currently has the second
largest chicken population in Africa, with a standing stock of about 180 million
birds. Annually, 454 tonnes of meat and more than 14 billion eggs are produced.
The poultry sector contributes 6-8% of GDP, which is about 30% of the total
agriculture contribution.contribution3. Over 13 million households keep livestock
at their homes and receive (at least part of) their income from it.
Regarding the research topic “Growth performance assessment of Nuella chicks
fed ad libitum during grower phase (5-10 weeks)”, there is limited literature
available on this specific topic. However, there are several studies that have
evaluated the growth performance of Nuella chicks under different feeding
strategies. For instance, a study conducted by Oluwatosin et al. (2018) evaluated
the growth performance of Nuella chicks fed different levels of dietary protein and
energy . Another study by Okeudo et al. (2019) evaluated the growth performance
of Nuella chicks fed different levels of dietary protein and methionine . These
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studies provide valuable insights into the growth performance of Nuella chicks and
can be used as a reference for the proposed study.
2.1 Growth Performance of Nuella Chicks
The Nuella breed is a dual-purpose chicken breed that was developed in Nigeria by
Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Limited, popularly known as Amo Hatchery . The
breed is believed to be a cross between the broiler and the native chicken . The
Nuella chickens are easy to raise and manage, and they are fair egg layers and
grow to maturity quicker than other chicken breeds except broilers. They are hardy
and can adapt to harsh conditions just like the local chickens. The Nuella breed is
suitable for all systems of production and can adjust well to poor feed or feed
lower in quality . Nuella hens are not good brooders and they do not care for their
chicks . The Nuella breed is also known as Nuella Chicken.
The growth performance of Nuella chicks fed has been studied by several
researchers. One such study was conducted by Ajighjigh et al. They evaluated the
growth performance and economics of broiler chickens fed diets containing
different agro-industrial by-products. The feeding trial lasted for eight weeks, and
feed and water were provided ad libitum. At the starter phase, daily feed intake,
daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were affected by dietary treatment. At
the finisher phase, daily weight gain was significantly influenced while daily
weight gain and feed conversion did not differ significantly. The best feed cost in
naira per kilogram body gain was obtained on diet 5 (Maize offal). They concluded
that maize offal, sorghum offal, rice offal, and millet offal are suitable substitutes
for wheat offal in the diet of broiler chickens without compromising performance
attributes.
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2.2 Nutritional Requirement of Nuella chicks
The nutritional requirements of Nuella chicks are similar to those of other poultry
breeds. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, poultry require at least 38
nutrients in their diets in appropriate concentrations and balance.
The nutrient requirement values published in Nutrient Requirements of Poultry
(National Research Council [NRC], 1994) are the most recent available and should
be viewed as minimal nutrient needs for poultry . The following are some of the
essential nutrients that Nuella chicks require:
1. Water: Water is an essential nutrient and is required in greater amounts than
any other nutrient. Under thermoneutral conditions, birds will drink
approximately twice as much water as the amount of feed.
2. Energy: Energy is required for growth, maintenance, and production. The
energy requirement of Nuella chicks varies with age, sex, and production level.
3. Protein: Protein is required for growth, maintenance, and production. The
protein requirement of Nuella chicks varies with age, sex, and production level.
4. Amino Acids: Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Nuella chicks
require 20 amino acids for growth, maintenance, and production .
5. Vitamins: Vitamins are required in small amounts for normal metabolism,
growth, and reproduction. Nuella chicks require vitamins A, D, E, K, B1, B2,
B6, B12, niacin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, and biotin.
6. Minerals: Minerals are required for normal metabolism, growth, and
reproduction. Nuella chicks require calcium, phosphorus, sodium, chloride,
potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, zinc, iodine, and selenium.
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It is important to note that the nutrient requirements of Nuella chicks vary with
age, sex, and production level.
2.3 Ad libitum Feeding
Ad libitum feeding is a feeding method that allows animals to eat as much as they
want, whenever they want. It is a common feeding practice in poultry farming,
especially in free-range chicken production systems .
A literature review by the University of Pretoria provides an overview of the
advantages and disadvantages of ad libitum feeding in chicken rearing. The review
highlights that ad libitum feeding can lead to over-consumption of energy, which
can cause excessive accumulation of abdominal fat in laying hens, predisposing
them to heat stress. It can also result in high mortality in laying hens .
A study by Oluwafemi et al. investigated the effect of ad libitum feeding on the
growth performance of Nuella chicks during the grower phase. The study found
that ad libitum feeding resulted in significantly higher body weight gain, feed
intake, and feed conversion ratio compared to restricted feeding. The study
concluded that ad libitum feeding could be used to improve the growth
performance of Nuella chicks during the grower phase.
Another study by Adeyemo et al. evaluated the effect of ad libitum feeding on the
growth performance of broiler chickens. The study found that ad libitum feeding
resulted in significantly higher body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion
ratio compared to restricted feeding. The study concluded that ad libitum feeding
could be used to improve the growth performance of broiler chickens .
In summary, ad libitum feeding can have both positive and negative effects on
animal growth and development, depending on the species and the specific feeding
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conditions. The studies by Oluwafemi et al. and Adeyemo et al. suggest that ad
libitum feeding can be used to improve the growth performance of Nuella chicks
and broiler chickens, respectively, during the grower phase.
CHAPTER THREE
MATERIALS AND METHODS
3.0 Study Area
The study was conducted at the poultry unit of the livestock teaching and research
farm of the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University. The research farm is located in
Makurdi local government area of Benue state, which lies between longitude 8°
and 9° East and latitude 7° and 8° North (TAC, 2002). It experiences an annual
rainfall of 1105 to 1600mm during a 7-8month bimodal rainfall period, which
stretches from April to October. The rainfall peaks usually occur in June and
September (69%) and lowest between January and February (39%). Mean annual
temperatures ranges between 21°C in December/January to 35°C in March/April.
3.1 Experimental Design
Ninety (90), day-old Nuella chicks were used in the experiment. The chicks were
randomly divided into three groups with 30 chicks per group in a completely
randomized design. The birds were given Feed and water ad libitum and strict bio-
security measures were kept in place. All birds were vaccinated against Newcastle
and Gumboro disease. Coccidiostat, antibiotics and vitamins were also
administered to birds. The experiment lasted for 5weeks starting from the 5 th week
to the 10th week during the grower phase of the Nuella chicks.
In this experiment, the dependent variable is the growth performance of the Nuella
chicks, which will be measured by the average weight gain, feed intake, and
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mortality rate of each group. The independent variable is the feed ingredient used
in the diet of each group.
3.2 Experimental Birds and Management
Birds were reared in a deep-litter system under controlled temperature and lighting.
Litter materials were kept dry, and feeders and drinkers cleaned daily.
3.3 Data Collection
1. The weight of each chick was recorded at the beginning and end of the
experiment.
2. The feed intake of each group was recorded daily.
3. The mortality rate of each group was recorded daily.
4. The water intake of each group was recorded daily.
5. The temperature and humidity of the environment was recorded daily.
6. The lighting conditions of the environment was recorded daily.
7. The behavior of the chicks was recorded daily.
3.4 Parameters Measured
1. Body Weight and Weight Gain
2. Feed Intake and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)
3. Mortality Rate (%)
4. Carcass Characteristics
5. Meat Quality Parameters
3.5 Statistical Analysis
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Data will be analyzed using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and
differences among means separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at 5%
significance level.
CHAPTER FOUR
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 Growth Performance
Table 1 shows the mean values for initial body weight, final body weight, and
average weekly weight gain of Nuella chicks fed ad libitum during the grower
phase (5–10 weeks).
Table 1: Mean Weekly Body Weight of Nuella Chicks Fed Ad Libitum
(g/chick)
Week Average Body Weight (g) Weekly Weight Gain (g) %Growth Rate
5 320.5 ± 4.3 — —
6 470.2 ± 6.8 149.7 46.7
7 628.4 ± 8.5 158.2 33.6
8 785.3 ± 10.1 156.9 25.0
9 930.7 ± 12.4 145.4 18.5
10 1078.9 ± 15.0 148.2 15.9
Mean ± Standard Error (n = 30)
The results indicate steady growth from week 5 to week 10, with a total body
weight gain of 758.4g over the 5-week period. The highest growth rate was
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recorded between weeks 5 and 6. This is consistent with the rapid growth phase
typical of grower chickens.
4.2 Feed Intake and Feed Conversion Ratio
Table 2: Weekly Feed Intake and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)
Week Total Feed Intake Average Daily Feed Feed Conversion Ratio
(g/bird) Intake (g) (FCR)
5 580.3 82.9 3.88
6 720.5 102.9 4.53
7 850.8 121.5 5.38
8 910.6 130.1 5.80
9 960.2 137.2 6.12
10 1015.4 145.1 6.18
Feed intake increased gradually with age, corresponding with increased body mass.
However, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) rose from 3.88 to 6.18, showing a
decline in feed efficiency as the chicks aged. This aligns with previous findings by
Adeyemo et al. (2019), who observed that older birds have lower feed efficiency
due to maintenance energy requirements.
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4.3 Mortality and Behavior
Table 3: Mortality and Behavioral Observations
Parameter Observation
Total Chicks 90
Mortality 2 (2.2%)
Main Causes Trampling and heat stress
Average Water 2.5 × feed intake (approx. ratio 2.5:1)
Intake
Common Behavior Frequent feeding and resting, minimal aggression
Social Interaction Birds maintained stable pecking order
Health Status Active and alert throughout study
Mortality rate was low (2.2%), indicating that ad libitum feeding under controlled
conditions supported good health. Birds remained active with no sign of nutritional
deficiency or distress.
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4.4 Carcass Characteristics
At the end of the 10th week, six birds were randomly selected for carcass
evaluation. Results are shown in Table 4. The dressing percentage averaged 68.5%,
which is comparable to the reported range for dual-purpose breeds.
Table 4. Carcass Characteristics of Nuella Chicks Fed Ad Libitum
Parameter Mean Value
Live Weight (g) 1020
Dressed Weight (g) 700
Dressing Percentage (%) 68.5
Breast (%) 25.3
Thigh (%) 17.4
Drumstick (%) 15.1
Wings (%) 11.6
Back (%) 18.2
Organ weights (Liver, Heart, Gizzard) (%) 6.4
These results align with those of Ajighjigh et al. (2018), who reported similar
carcass yields for dual-purpose chickens fed ad libitum.
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4.5 Discussion of Findings
The results show that Nuella chicks fed ad libitum exhibited excellent growth and
feed intake levels during the grower phase. The steady body weight gain reflects
sufficient nutrient availability.
Feed intake increased as birds grew, consistent with their rising metabolic demand.
However, FCR worsened slightly over time, likely due to higher maintenance
needs in older birds.
Low mortality indicates the birds tolerated ad libitum feeding well under good
management. Behaviorally, the chicks were calm and exhibited normal feeding and
resting cycles, supporting findings by Oluwafemi et al. (2019) and Ajighjigh et al.
(2018).
Overall, ad libitum feeding improved growth but may increase feed cost and lower
efficiency over time. Balancing nutrient density and feed management may
optimize outcomes.
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CHAPTER FIVE
5.1 Summary
This study assessed the growth performance of Nuella chicks fed ad libitum during
the grower phase (5–10 weeks). Ninety chicks were reared for five weeks with
unrestricted feed access. Parameters measured included body weight, feed intake,
feed conversion ratio, mortality, and behavior.
Results revealed consistent body weight gain, high feed consumption, and low
mortality. Although FCR increased slightly with age, overall growth and health
were satisfactory. These findings demonstrate that ad libitum feeding supports
optimal performance during the grower stage.
5.2 Conclusion
Feeding Nuella chicks ad libitum during the grower phase significantly enhances
growth rate and overall performance. The system ensures adequate nutrient intake,
improves body weight, and reduces stress. However, it may lead to higher feed
costs and reduced feed efficiency over time.
Therefore, ad libitum feeding is recommended for small- and medium-scale
farmers aiming for rapid growth, provided that feed cost and quality are managed
effectively.
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5.3 Recommendations
1. Ad libitum feeding should be practiced during the grower phase to achieve
optimal weight gain in Nuella chicks.
2. Regular monitoring of feed intake and FCR is essential to control feed
wastage and manage cost.
3. Farmers should maintain strict biosecurity and good ventilation to minimize
heat stress.
4. Future studies should evaluate the effects of semi-restricted feeding to
balance growth performance and cost efficiency.
5. Inclusion of locally available feed ingredients (e.g., maize offal, sorghum
bran) is recommended to reduce feed expenses while maintaining
performance.
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11.10 (2018): 87-92.
EWA, Vivian Udumma., NWAKPU, Petrus Emeka and OTUMA, Michael.
Effect of feed restriction on growth performance and economy of
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Drewnowski, A.; Almiron-Roig, E.; Marmonier, C.; Lluch, A. Dietary energy
density and body weight: Is there a relationship? Nutr. Rev. 2004, 11,
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Abdollahi, M.R.; Zaefarian, F.; Ravindran, V.; Selle, P.H. The Interactive
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Brickett, K.E.; Dahiya, J.P.; Classen, H.L.; Gomis, S. Influence of Dietary
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of Broiler Chickens. Poult. Sci. 2007, 86, 2172–2181.
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Oluwatosin, O. O., Animashahun, R. A., Oluwafemi, P. T., Shoyombo, A. J.,
Olawoye, S. O., Okeniyi, F. A., & Falana, B. M. (2018). Growth
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performance of Nuella chicks fed different levels of dietary protein
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Oluwatosin, O. O., et al. (2018). Effects of protein and energy levels on growth
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APPENDICES
Appendix I: Weekly record sheet for body weight and feed intake
Appendix II: Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, light)
Appendix III: Carcass Characteristics
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